Evaluation of Cytotoxic and Antioxidant Activities in Silene baccifera Extract as a Cosmetic Ingredient

Silene baccifera, commonly known as mile-a-minute vine, is a fast-growing climbing plant traditionally used in folk medicine for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Despite its ethnobotanical relevance, scientific data on its cytotoxic and antioxidant activities remain limited. This study aimed to evaluate the cytotoxic effects and antioxidant potential of Silene baccifera(SB) extract using in vitro assays. Ethanolic extracts of Silene baccifera were prepared and tested for cytotoxicity using the MTT assay on HaCaT human keratinocyte cells. Antioxidant activity was assessed through ABTS assay, FRAP assay, CUPRAC assay, and DPPH radical scavenging. Total phenolic and flavonoid contents were also quantified. The SB extract exhibited dose-dependent cytotoxicity, with significant inhibitory effects observed at higher concentrations. SB extract showed no cytotoxicity in HaCaT cells at concentrations up to 400 μg/mL. Moreover, under oxidative stress induced by H2O2, SB extract significantly increased cell viability in a dose-dependent manner, demonstrating its protective effects against cellular damage. Antioxidant assays, including DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging tests, revealed strong radical scavenging activity of SB extract, particularly at 200 μg/mL, where over 90% inhibition was observed. In addition, FRAP and CUPRAC assays confirmed the significant electron-donating ability of SB extract, which increased with concentration, indicating excellent reducing power. These findings suggest that SB extract possesses excellent biocompatibility and antioxidant properties, indicating its strong potential as a functional ingredient for cosmetic formulations aimed at protecting skin from oxidative damage and environmental stress.