Harnessing young teak leaves extract for antioxidant and antibacterial skincare applications

Teak (Tectona grandis) leaves contain bioactive secondary metabolites with antioxidant and antibacterial properties. This study examined ethanol extracts of young teak leaves (ratios 1:3 and 1:4) and their application in lotion preparations. Total flavonoid content (TFC), total phenolic content (TPC), and antioxidant activity were assessed. The 1:4 extract yielded higher TFC (15.24 ± 0.42 mg QE/g extract) than the 1:3 extract (13.11 ± 0.66 mg QE/g extract), while TPC were comparable. Both extracts exhibited moderate antioxidant activity by DPPH assay (IC₅₀ values around 124 mg/L), supported by the FRAP results. The extracts demonstrated antimicrobial activity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Lotion preparations containing the extracts showed stable pH (7.7), with viscosities of 7,100 mPa·s and 18,280 mPa·s for the 1:3 and 1:4 extracts, respectively, while retaining modest antibacterial activity. These findings indicate that young teak leaves extract has potential as a natural bioactive additive for cosmetic applications.