Anti-wrinkle potential of Serbian plant flowers

Plants represent an unparalleled natural source of bioactive compounds. While the majority of scientific research focuses on roots, leaves, aerial parts, or seeds, floral organs—particularly petals—remain relatively underexplored. However, petal extracts (PEs) have often demonstrated higher bioactive content compared to other plant parts [1]. Given the long-standing tradition of cultivating ornamental plants in Serbia, locally grown floral petals offer a promising and underutilized resource for the discovery of natural anti-aging agents. One of the key targets in skin aging is the enzyme collagenase, which progressively accumulates and degrades collagen—an essential protein for skin elasticity, hydration, and structural integrity—ultimately contributing to wrinkle formation [2]. Therefore, the identification of potent natural collagenase inhibitors represents a logical and effective strategy in the search for anti-wrinkle (anti-aging) compounds.