Introduction: Plant extracts are used, among others, for the production of cosmetic goods. However, storing them for too long may degrade valuable substances and reduce antioxidant activity. The Plantago lanceolata L. and the Plantago major L. are applied as agents in the treatment of skin diseases, where they show an anti-inflammatory as well as an antibacterial effect.
Materials and methods: In this study, plant material was extracted using 4 solvents: ethanol, methanol, propan-1-ol as well as propan-2-ol (all at 3 different concentrations). The ultra-sound-assisted extraction was applied for 30–60 min. After the extraction, antioxidant activity of a part of the extracts was immediately evaluated – using the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylohydrazil (DPPH) method – while the remaining part of the extracts was stored for 6 months and then evaluated for antioxidant potential.
Conclusions: The most beneficial antioxidant properties were found in the extracts of dried leaves for both P. lanceolate and P. major in 70% (v/v) isopropanol and concentrated methanol, determined immediately after their preparation. In the case of P. major, dried leaves and a longer preparation time led to a significant increase in antioxidant activity. Both species, P. lanceolata and P. major, seem to be valuable plants with high antioxidant activity for improving everyday health. Cosmetic preparations containing extracts from these plants seem to be a good solution to provide effective anti-aging protection.
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