Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Effects of Stemona japonica Extracts Based on Different Solvents

The transformation of modern society, coupled with increased emphasis on interpersonal relationships and women’s social engagement, has heightened focus on skincare and cosmetics. Younger demographics, growing male interest, aging populations, pollution, and climate change have all contributed to a rising demand for functional cosmetics that address skin aging. This shift has driven interest in natural ingredients that offer benefits like hydration, elasticity, and anti-wrinkle effects, as consumers increasingly seek non-toxic options due to concerns over synthetic additives. Natural compounds with bioactive components have shown promising antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-aging, and antimicrobial effects, making them attractive for skincare product development. Stemona japonica, traditionally used for its soothing, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties, was studied for its skin-improving effects, with extracts obtained using various solvents (50% EtOH, 100% EtOH, and DW). Results showed that DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging activities increased with concentration across all extracts, with 50% and 100% EtOH extracts achieving antioxidant levels comparable to ascorbic acid. Additionally, Nitrite production in RAW 264.7 cells was significantly reduced across all extracts, especially in 50% and 100% EtOH extracts, showing effects similar to sulfuretin. In HaCaT cells, cytokines IL-6 and IL-8 secretion was notably decreased, with high-concentration 50% and 100% EtOH extracts showing prominent anti-inflammatory potential. TARC and RANTES expression levels, linked to skin inflammation, were also reduced across treatments, underscoring the extracts anti-inflammatory effects. In conclusion, Stemona japonica extracts, particularly those obtained with ethanol, demonstrated significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity without cytotoxicity, indicating their potential as safe, effective agents for natural skincare applications. This research offers foundational data for developing safe, functional cosmetic products aligned with consumer demand for natural and non-toxic skincare solutions.