Atividades antioxidante e anti-tirosinase de um extrato metanólico de Origanum vulgare L.

Introduction: Sunlight-induced free radicals can contribute to pigmentation disorders, such as hyperpigmentation. Tyrosinase is a crucial enzyme in melanogenesis, and its natural inhibitors are gaining popularity as safer hypopigmenting agents in the cosmetics industry to prevent hyperpigmentation and skin disorders by reducing melanin production. Objective: This study evaluates the Total Phenolic Content (TPC), antioxidant activity, and anti-tyrosinase activity of a methanolic extract from Origanum vulgare L. for potential cosmetic applications. Methodology: The TPC was measured using the Folin-Ciocalteu method. Antioxidant activity was assessed through the DPPH radical inhibition assay, while anti-tyrosinase activity was determined using a mushroom tyrosinase kit with kojic acid as a standard. Results: The TPC was found to be 71.37 ± 2.09 mg of gallic acid equivalents (GAE) per gram. The extract demonstrated moderate antioxidant and anti-tyrosinase activity, with IC50 values of 310.12 μg/mL and 351.43 μg/mL, respectively. Conclusion: Oregano extract showed moderate antioxidant and tyrosinase inhibition, suggesting possible cosmetic use. While less effective than standards, further study is needed to isolate active compounds, develop formulations in association with other extracts, and evaluate efficacy and safety in relevant biological models.