Achillea Species as Sources of Active Phytochemicals for Dermatological and Cosmetic Applications

Abstract

Achillea spp. is well known for its broad range of applications and long history of use in traditional medicine around the world. Health benefits of Achillea extracts result from the multitude of secondary metabolites identified in the plants from this genus that include flavonoids, phenolic acids, terpenes, guaianolides, phytosterols, fatty acids, and organic acids. The properties of several Achillea extracts meet also the expectations of a vividly developing cosmetic market. An increasing number of studies on the dermatological properties of Achillea spp. are observed in the recent years, with Achillea millefolium L. being the most studied and used representative of the genus. There is strong scientific evidence showing that also other yarrow species might be rich sources of effective cosmetic ingredients, with skin calming and rejuvenating properties, wound healing activity, and anti-inflammatory potential. Several Achillea extracts and isolated compounds were also shown to display significant tyrosinase inhibitory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties and thus are interesting candidates for active ingredients of medications and cosmetic products protecting the skin from the harmful impact of environmental stressors. The aim of this review is to collect the current information on the composition and cosmeceutical significance of different Achillea species.

Antioxidant, Anti-Inflammatory, and Antibacterial Properties of an Achillea millefolium L. Extract and Its Fractions Obtained by Supercritical Anti-Solvent Fractionation against Helicobacter pylori

“…The antioxidant effect of yarrow extracts has been extensively studied in both in vitro and in vivo models; likewise, the radical scavenging capacity, intracellular oxidative damage, and reduction in lipid peroxidation in rats have been reported [ 13 , 23 , 24 , 25 , 26 ]. The anti-inflammatory properties of yarrow ethanolic extracts have shown their role in the suppression of pro-inflammatory cytokines [ 26 , 27 ]. Regarding antibacterial activity, aqueous and ethanolic extracts of yarrow have been effective against different microorganisms, including those causing skin infections, such as Staphylococcus aureus , Staphylococcus epidermidis , and Pseudomonas aeruginosa , and others related with gastrointestinal diseases, such as Salmonella thypi and Escherichia coli [ 19 , 28 , 29 ].…”

Chemical and Biological Characteristics of Oxytropis pseudoglandulosa Plant of Mongolian Origin

“…In recent years, the traditional remedies exhibit peaking popularity due to their possible commercial application for medicinal or healthcare purposes [4]. This seems to be especially true for the natural resources of oriental heritage, where products are marked by the long history of their use and little to no scientific foundation performed on their bioactive properties [5][6][7].…”

Cardioprotective effects of Ferulic acid against various drugs and toxic agents

“…They are commonly found in fruits, vegetables, beverages and herbal remedies [9]. These alkaloid compounds contain numerous active substances like flavonoids, polyphenols, indoles and sulfur containing elements [10]. These phytochemicals have the tendency to safeguard humans against diabetes mellitus, hepatic disorders, cardiovascular disease, cancer, arthritis, and Alzheimer's disease and many more [11,12].…”