Pharmaceutical cream with Carthamus tinctorius L. extract: formulation and evaluation
Abstract
The aim. The aim of this study was to develop and evaluate a pharmaceutical cream formulation containing a liquid extract of Carthamus tinctorius L. flowers. The research focused on characterizing the extract using instrumental analytical methods (IR spectroscopy, spectrophotometry with rutin standard, HPLC, and UV spectroscopy for β-carotene) and on designing cream bases with different hydrophilic, hydrophobic, and emulsion components. The study further sought to assess the quality parameters of the developed formulations, including appearance, homogeneity, thermostability, colloidal stability, and pH, in order to identify the most stable and pharmaceutically promising compositions. Methods. A liquid extract of Carthamus tinctorius L. flowers was used as the active pharmaceutical ingredient. Its composition and properties were analyzed using IR spectroscopy, spectrophotometry (λmax = 410 nm, rutin standard), HPLC (comparison with rutin), and UV spectroscopy for β-carotene (λmax ≈ 450 nm). Based on the extract, eight cream samples were formulated with different hydrophilic, hydrophobic, and emulsion bases. The quality of the samples was evaluated according to the following parameters: appearance, homogeneity, thermostability, colloidal stability, and pH. Results. IR spectroscopy confirmed the presence of polyphenols, flavonoids, and organic acids. The total flavonoid content was 2.2% (calculated as rutin). HPLC analysis revealed multiple peaks, including rutin (Rt = 18.17 min), coinciding with the standard (Rt = 18.20 min). The UV spectrum showed a high level of β-carotene (A = 4.35 compared to A = 0.60 in the standard). Out of the 8 cream samples, only formulations No. 3, No. 5, and No. 7 demonstrated stability. Discussion. Instrumental analysis confirmed the presence of a complex of biologically active substances in the extract, ensuring its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. The high content of flavonoids and β-carotene substantiates the therapeutic potential of the product. Selection of the cream base showed that a rational combination of hydrophilic and hydrophobic components ensures stability and preservation of active ingredients. Conclusions. A therapeutic-cosmetic cream with a liquid extract of Carthamus tinctorius L. has been developed. Out of 8 tested formulations, samples No. 3, No. 5, and No. 7 demonstrated the best quality parameters and are recommended for further investigation. The obtained data confirm the prospects of using safflower extract in the creation of modern phytopharmaceuticals with pronounced anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity