Antioxidant And Antiaging Potentials of Justicia Gendarussa Leaf and Root Methanolic Extracts

Abstract

Premature and accelerated skin aging is a complex skin complication affecting millions worldwide. Excessive exposure to ultraviolet radiation causes reactive oxygen species accumulation that promotes premature skin aging. Topical skincare application is a common therapeutic method but may contain dangerous chemicals. Thus, plant-based skin products are gaining prominence among consumers. Justicia gendarussa is a local plant traditionally used to treat multiple conditions. However, the antiaging property of this plant is still unclear. The aim of this study was to extract phytochemicals from the leaf and root of J. gendarussa and assess their antioxidant and antiaging potentials. Total phenolic and flavonoid content were measured using colorimetric assays. DPPH radical scavenging and enzyme inhibition assays were used to determine the antioxidant and antiaging properties of the extracts. J. gendarussa leaf (JGL) extract showed a higher TPC value but slightly lower TFC value than the root (JGR) extract. Both extracts showed dose-dependent DPPH radical scavenging activities with maximum inhibitions of about 40% at 0.5 mg/ml concentration. The leaf extract demonstrated higher (47%) anti-tyrosinase activity than the root extract (37%). Both extracts showed low anti-collagenase activities. Nonetheless, this study suggests J. gendarussa possesses antioxidant and antiaging properties and highlights its potential application in developing novel natural-based skincare formulations.