The initiative, funded under the Cooperation Development Research Programme (Kooperation Entwicklungsforschung/KoEF) of the OEAD, aimed to explore the rich biodiversity of medicinal plants in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, and Innsbruck, Austria, with the ultimate goal of developing safe, effective and non-toxic phytocosmetic products.
The project focused on the vast potential of natural flora to provide a wealth of novel and biologically significant compounds as a basis for drug discovery. The team emphasised different forms of natural products, including phytochemicals, nutraceuticals, cosmeceuticals, oleoresins and essential oils. In line with modern health concepts, the project recognised the importance of not only eradicating disease, but also ensuring the overall health and well-being of the individual.
Phytocosmetics, fragrances, toiletries and personal care products have gained increasing market interest worldwide, particularly in mature markets such as Europe, Asia and the USA. The project's geographical focus on Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, and Innsbruck, Austria, allowed for a diverse exploration of local flora and traditional knowledge.
The global market for natural personal care products exceeded $32 billion in 2014, with Europe and North America leading the industry. However, Asia and Latin America are experiencing the fastest growth, indicating a global shift towards natural and plant-based health care products.
Researchers from the Department of Chemistry, Swabi University, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, and the Institute of Analytical Chemistry and Radiochemistry (ACRC); Austrian Drug Screening Institute (ADSI), University of Innsbruck, Austria, collaborated seamlessly to conduct phytochemical screening and cosmetic evaluation.
The successful completion of this project is an important step in bridging global expertise to harness the potential of medicinal plants for the development of safe and effective phytocosmetic products. The results contribute to the growing body of knowledge supporting the use of botanical-based products in the health and beauty industry, in line with the growing societal interest in sustainable and natural alternatives.
Visit the project website.