An In Vitro Evaluation of Robin’s Pincushion Extract as a Novel Bioactive-Based Antistaphylococcal Agent—Comparison to Rosehip and Black Rosehip

<b>Introduction:</b> This study explores the bioactive properties of extracts obtained from Robin's pincushion (<i>Diplolepis rosae</i>) collected in Sokobanja, Serbia. <b>Results:</b> Comprehensive in vitro assessments reveal high concentrations of total phenolics (186.37 mg GAE/g), along with significant levels of carotenoids (44.10 μg β-car/g). Robin's pincushion exhibited superior antioxidant capacities across DPPH, ABTS, and reducing power assays, significantly outperforming comparable extracts from rosehip (<i>Rosa canina</i>) and black rosehip (<i>Rosa spinosissima</i>) in these activities. Additionally, high inhibitory effects were observed in antimicrobial assays, with the extract demonstrating minimal inhibitory concentrations (MIC) as low as 1.56 mg/mL against the <i>Staphylococcus</i> species. Notably, the extract achieved full bactericidal effect within 24 h in time-kill kinetic studies which additionally highlight its potent antistaphylococcal potential. <b>Materials and methods:</b> Analyzing their phytochemical profiles and evaluating their potential as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antihyperglycemic, and antimicrobial agents, wide-ranging evaluation of bioactivity of Robin's pincushion was conducted. <b>Conclusions:</b> These findings highlight Robin's pincushion as a promising natural source of bioactive compounds with potential applications in traditional and modern medicine for managing oxidative stress, inflammation, hyperglycemia, and microbial infections.