Application and optimization of ultrasound-assisted deep eutectic solvent for the extraction of new skin-lightening cosmetic materials from Ixora javanica flower

Could a humble tropical flower hold the key to the next generation of skin-lightening cosmetics? Scientists have found a green, ultrasound-powered way to unlock its hidden potential.

The beauty industry is hungry for innovation, but raw materials are a growing bottleneck. Nature offers an alternative—and Ixora javanica, the 'jungle flame' flower, is stepping into the spotlight. Known for its vivid red petals, this plant has already shown promise as an antioxidant and skin-lightening agent. Now, researchers are refining how to extract its best compounds.

Their tool of choice? A deep eutectic solvent—a green, designer liquid—paired with ultrasound. Eleven solvent combinations were tested, and the winner was choline chloride mixed with propylene glycol in a 1:1 ratio. This eco-friendly blend outperformed the rest in pulling out flavonoids and anthocyanins, while also boosting antioxidant and tyrosinase-inhibiting activities.

To perfect the process, the team used response surface methodology to tweak temperature, time, and solid-to-liquid ratio. The sweet spot: a 5-minute extraction at 57°C with a ratio of 0.02 g/mL. This yielded 33 mg of quercetin equivalent per gram of dried sample—a solid haul of flavonoids.

The result is a fast, green, and effective method to produce high-quality Ixora javanica extract. It's a promising step toward sustainable, nature-derived ingredients for skin-lightening cosmetics.

Key Points

• Choline chloride-propylene glycol (1:1) is the optimal green solvent.
• Ultrasound-assisted extraction yields 33 mg quercetin equivalent per gram.
• Optimized at 57°C, 5 minutes, and 0.02 g/mL solid-to-liquid ratio.