Abstract:
Natural plant extracts are gaining popularity among health-conscious consumers due to their antioxidant properties and benefits for the skin.This study focuses on enhancing the value of Antidesma bunius, commonly known as MaMao a native fruit of northeastern Thailand, by investigating the anthocyanin content, antioxidant activity, and stability of an oil-in-water (O/W) emulsion containing Ma Mao fruit extract and ferulic acid. The results showed that the extract yield was 7.60±0.82%, with an anthocyanin content of 81.21±0.01 mg/L. The extract exhibited good solubility in water, 95% ethanol, and propylene glycol. Antioxidant activity assessed using the DPPH assay revealed an IC₅₀ value of 0.23±0.01 mg/mL. The Ma Mao fruit extract, when co-pigmented with ferulic acid, demonstrated high stability under specific conditions. Subsequently, an oil-in-water (O/W) emulsion formulation containing the co-pigmented Ma Mao fruit extract was developed and evaluated for its physical and chemical stability. The emulsion was found to be stable, with no phase separation during the testing period and minimal changes in pH, color, and viscosity. The texture and fragrance remained unchanged. These findings indicate the potential of Ma Mao extract as a key ingredient in natural cosmetic products with antioxidant properties and high stability.