Antioxidant, Anti-Tyrosinase, and Anti-Collagenase Properties of Elephantopus scaber Leaf and Root Extracts

Abstract

Excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation is the most common cause of accelerated skin aging. Due to the geographical location, skin aging has become a growing health concern in Malaysia, leading to the ever-increasing demand for skincare products. However, some skin care products contain hazardous chemicals such as paraben and formaldehyde. Thus, consumers are now switching to natural-based skincare products. Elephantopus scaber (E. scaber), also known as "Tutup Bumi", is one of the medicinal herbs found in Malaysia. Although E. scaber is widely used for medicinal purposes, its anti-skin aging properties remain unknown. This study aimed to investigate the antioxidant and anti-skin aging potential of E. scaber leaf and root extracts. Total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assays were performed to determine the antioxidant properties of E. scaber extracts. The extracts were assayed for tyrosinase and collagenase inhibition to determine their anti-skin aging properties. The root extract of E. scaber (ESR) showed higher TPC (63.34 ± 0.56 mg GAE/g) and TFC (156.46 ± 7.43 mg QE/g) compared to E. scaber leaf (ESL) extract. However, the ESL showed a better DPPH radical scavenging activity. The ESR also showed higher inhibitory activities against tyrosinase and collagenase. Therefore, E. scaber, especially the root part, is a promising natural candidate for anti-skin aging treatment.