In vitro evaluation of delivery systems integrating huauzontle (Chenopodium berlandieri) extracts with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties for their potential use in the cosmetic industry

Abstract

Chenopodium berlandieri spp. (Huauzontle) is a Mexico-native pseudocereal with interesting compounds. It is considered a traditional food crop since prehispanic times, and it is still consumed as a fresh or cooked vegetable. Its enhanced nutritional properties of bioactive compounds, such as saponins and oleanolic acid, are giving it the attention of scientists. Here, we propose the development of a liposome delivery system integrating an extract and a hydrolyzed extract from huauzontle for their potential use in the cosmetic industry. Conventional solid/liquid extraction will be performed to obtain saponin-rich extracts, and through HPLC-ELSD and LC-MS/TOF, their characterization will be carried out. Once characterized, the extract will be hydrolyzed in order to obtain oleanolic acid, which is also intended to be integrated into a liposome delivery system. Finally, to measure the efficacy of the liposomes, the biological activities of dermatological importance for androgenic alopecia, acne vulgaris, and skin wrinkling will be tested. We expect to observe particle sizes of the liposome delivery system below 200 nm, necessary for a correct permeability of the skin; additionally, we expect to achieve good biological activities to prevent and treat stated skin conditions; those expected results are crucial to deem the introduction of these delivery system loaded with huauzontle extracts for their potential use in the cosmeceutical industry.