A comparative investigation of the phytochemical profiles and bioactivities of selected agave species in Kwa-zulu Natal, South Africa

Abstract

In northern KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, as informed by indigenous knowledge, local people use different species of Agave plants for cosmetic and therapeutic purposes. Various kinds of the Agave genus are claimed to have comprehensive traditional uses, such as treating health disorders such as inflammations and wound infections. There is also a growing number of cosmetic products incorporating plant extracts that are claimed to alleviate specific ailments and ease skin conditions (such as dryness/ itchiness, acne, etc.). Small businesses are producing Agave-enriched cosmetic products, which claim soothing and nourishing properties, yet there is no substantiation of their claims. Hence, this study investigated the phytochemical profile, efficacy, and safety use of Agave angustifolia Haw. var. angustifolia and Agave sisalana Perrine leaves in the cosmetic industry. Fresh wild Agave leaves were collected and transported to the laboratory, where they were cleaned, chopped, dried, and cold macerated in four solvents of different polarities, starting from the non-polar to the polar solvent. The extracts were then subjected to phytochemical screening, UV analysis, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and vitro cytotoxicity studies. All plant extracts contained flavonoids, glycosides and saponins, while alkaloids were not found in all A. angustifolia extracts. All A. sisalana plant extracts were found to be non-cytotoxic, and this plant can be used to manufacture cosmetic products. The results proposed the possible use of oil-extracted Agave leaves from both plants in the manufacture of cosmetic products intended for use in the reduction of the appearance of symptoms associated with S. pyogenes infections, as well as products claiming antioxidant, anti-ageing, anti-inflammatory, and broad-spectrum anti-microbial activity. Agave angustifolia has the potential to be used in antitumor studies.