Study and Application of Moringa oleifera: Development of a Seed Oil Extract and Evaluation of Its Effectiveness in Skin Health

Abstract

This study aims to evaluate the biological and therapeutic efficacy of oil extracted from Moringa oleifera seeds, with a specific focus on its role in accelerating wound healing when applied topically. The selection of this plant was motivated by its richness in biologically active compounds, such as flavonoids, phenolics, and fatty acids, in addition to its widespread use in traditional medicine as an antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and tissue-regenerating agent. To achieve this objective, a series of biochemical and biological tests were conducted, including both in vitro and in vivo experiments. Initially, the oil was extracted from Moringa seeds by cold pressing, using a specialized mechanical press to preserve the active constituents. The oil yield was considerable, reaching 38.97%, with a suitable pH value of 4.11. The antioxidant capacity was assessed using the FRAP assay (Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power). The results demonstrated high efficacy in reducing ferric ions, comparable to the standard antioxidant (ascorbic acid), as confirmed by statistical analysis based on EC₅₀ values: EC₅₀ (extract): 0.873 ± 0.030 vs. EC₅₀ (ascorbic acid): 0.5243 ± 1.10, indicating a strong free radical scavenging potential. The UV-protective effect of the oil was also evaluated by determining the Sun Protection Factor (SPF), which yielded a value of 73.25, highlighting its potential use as a natural photoprotective agent. At the microbial level, the antibacterial activity was assessed through the determination of Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) and Minimum Bactericidal Concentration (MBC) against selected (Gram+ and Gram-) bacterial strains. The MIC values ranged from 25% for E. coli, P. aeruginosa, and B. subtilis to 50% for P. aureus, confirming the oil's antimicrobial properties. In addition, the oil demonstrated the ability to inhibit biofilm formation and protease enzyme activity, both of which are crucial factors in reducing inflammation and protecting