PREPARATION AND EVALUATION STUDY OF ANTIOXIDANT-RICH HERBAL FACE SERUM FROM CLITORIA TERNATEA.

Abstract

Background: Clitoria ternatea, commonly known as butterfly pea, is recognized for its rich antioxidant composition, especially anthocyanins called ternatins, which assist in protecting the skin against oxidative damage and early aging. Herbal cosmetic products are gaining popularity because they are naturally derived and generally associated with fewer adverse effects. The present study aimed to develop a herbal antioxidant face serum incorporating Clitoria ternatea along with a natural gelling agent. Method: The flowers of Clitoria ternatea were collected, dried under shade, and converted into fine powder. The plant extract was obtained through aqueous or ethanolic extraction techniques. A herbal face serum was then prepared using xanthan gum as the natural thickening agent, glycerin as a moisturizing component, and Vitamin E to enhance antioxidant potential. The prepared formulation was assessed for different physicochemical parameters including pH, viscosity, spreadability, uniformity, and skin compatibility. Stability testing was carried out at room temperature, refrigerated conditions, and accelerated storage environments. Antioxidant potential of the serum was determined using the DPPH radical scavenging method. Result: The developed serum showed appropriate consistency, uniform appearance, and a smooth texture suitable for topical use. The formulation demonstrated acceptable spreadability and good homogeneity without any evidence of phase separation. Stability evaluation confirmed that the serum maintained its physical characteristics under different storage conditions without major alterations. Conclusion: The investigation successfully developed a stable antioxidant-enriched herbal face serum containing Clitoria ternatea and xanthan gum. The formulation displayed favorable physicochemical characteristics, satisfactory stability, and considerable antioxidant effectiveness, indicating its potential as a natural cosmeceutical product.

Keywords: Clitoria ternatea, xanthan gum, herbal face serum, antioxidant activity, antimicrobial activity, anti-aging, traditional medicine, pharmacological activities