Biochemical Profile and Antimicrobial Activity of an Herbal-Based Formula and Its Potential Application in Cosmetic Industry

Microbial infections, and especially microbial resistance, are critical and actual problems that require targeted and efficient therapeutic intervention. Natural-based solutions are a viable alternative, at least for complementary therapy, due to few or no side effects and high safety and efficacy levels. The aim of this study was to demonstrate the potential use of a patented formula based on Achillea millefolium, Origanum vulgare, and Lychnis coronaria species as an antibacterial ingredient, mainly for skin and mucosal infections, in order to support its pharmaco-cosmetic application. The chemical composition of the formula was analyzed by HPLC and spectrophotometric methods. Furthermore, antioxidant and antimicrobial activity were evaluated. To determine the formula’s safety for topical application, it was used on a reconstructed human epidermal model. The formula showed inhibitory activity on both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, respectively, moderate inhibition on B. cereus, Kocuria kristinae, P. aeurginosa, S. enterica Typhimurium, methicillin-resistant and methicillin-sensible S. aureus, as well as high inhibition on S. epidermidis, Serratia marescens, and Streptococcus pyogenes. The developed product was biochemically characterized for its content in polyphenols, triterpenes, and polyphenol carboxylic acids. The formula was proven to have a nonirritant effect on the human epidermis and important antioxidant activity.