Biological Activities and Anti-wrinkle Effects of Pinus koraiensis Siebold et Zucc. Leaf Extract

Abstract

Background: This study assessed the role of Pinus koraiensis ( P. koraiensis ) Siebold et Zucc. leaves as an ingredient for cosmetics. The biological activities and wrinkle improvement effect of P. koraiensis leaves were investigated. Methods and Results: Leaf samples were mixed with 80% ethanol (EtOH), and the ingredients were separated into fractions using different solvents in order of n-Hexane, ethyl acetate (EtOAc), n-butanol and water. The antioxidant activity based on 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), scavenging of 2,2’-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) diammonium salt (ABTS), and total phenol and flavonoid content of 80% EtOH extracts and fractions was tested. Among the tested extracts and fractions, the EtOAc fraction displayed the greatest DPPH and ABTS scavenging activity and total phenol and flavonoid content. Wrinkle improvement was evaluated by per-forming collagenase and elastase assays. In addition, matrix metallopeptidase 1 (MMP-1) inhibition and procollagen synthesis were measured. The 80% EtOH extract displayed the greatest anti-wrinkle effects. Conclusions: The 80% EtOH extract and each fraction of P. koraiensis leaves displayed differing antioxidant and anti-wrinkle activities. This basic data will inform the utilization these P. koraiensis as an ingredient suitable for skin health and beauty.