INCORPORATION AND EVALUATION OF THE STABILITY OF CARYOCAR BRASILIENSE (PEQUI) EXTRACTS IN COSMETIC BASES

Abstract

The objective of this study was to investigate the feasibility of incorporating extracts of Caryocar brasiliense Cambess (pequi) into different cosmetic bases. Pequi, a species native to the Brazilian Cerrado, has high medicinal, oleaginous, and tannic value, with the inner mesocarp (pulp) and leaves having cosmetic potential. The extracts from the inner pulp and leaves were obtained by percolation in a 25% (v/v) hydroalcoholic solution and subsequent rotary evaporation. The resulting liquid extracts were incorporated at concentrations of 1% and 5% in three different bases: silicone silk, croda cream, and nikkomulese cream. After incorporation, the formulations were evaluated for organoleptic properties, compatibility, and preservation, and stored at room temperature (27°C). The results indicated that there were no immediate organoleptic changes in any of the bases tested. However, after two months of storage, the bases containing the inner mesocarp extract remained unchanged, demonstrating good incorporation capacity and product durability without the addition of preservatives. In contrast, the formulations with the leaf extract showed darkening and changes in viscosity, indicating lower stability. It can be concluded that the extract from the inner mesocarp of Caryocar brasiliense Cambess is a promising active ingredient for the cosmetics industry, capable of providing stability and durability to the final product at room temperature, in line with the global trend toward the use of organic and sustainable raw materials.