Investigation of Bioactivities of Morel Mushrooms (Morchella Spp.) and Their Application in Facial Mask Formulation

Abstract

Mushrooms have historically been a significant natural resource due to their nutritional and medicinal properties. Today, the bioactive compounds in mushrooms are attracting considerable interest, particularly in the food, nutrition, and cosmetics sectors. Approximately 14,000 mushroom species have been identified, of which only 2,000 are suitable for human consumption and 650 are reported to have medicinal properties. Recent studies on the biological activities of mushrooms demonstrate that these organisms possess remarkable properties not only as nutrients but also from a pharmacological and cosmetic perspective. In this context, morel mushrooms (Morchella spp.) exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, moisturizing, and anti-aging effects thanks to their rich content of polysaccharides, β-glucans, phenolics, flavonoids, amino acids, vitamins, and minerals. The biological activities of Morchella extracts, such as scavenging free radicals, inhibiting lipid peroxidation, reducing UV-induced oxidative stress, supporting epidermal barrier integrity, and accelerating wound healing, have been reported in the literature. Extracts with antimicrobial activity can also serve as natural preservatives in cosmetic formulations. Furthermore, due to their moisture-retaining properties, they are effective in masks and tonics, protecting and strengthening the skin against oxidative stress. In this study, the protein content of naturally grown morel mushrooms from the Muğla region was determined using the Three-Phase Partitioning (TPP) method, and protease enzyme activity was investigated. Cosmetic face mask formulations were developed with the obtained proteins. The yield of the protein purified from morel mushrooms using the TPP method was calculated as 40.26% in the middle phase. As a result of the applications, the masks were observed to increase skin moisture, radiance, and vitality. In conclusion, the morel mushroom (Morchella spp.) stands out as a high-value-added natural raw material in the cosmetic industry due to its rich biochemical components and versatile biological activities. This study not only highlights the potential of Morchella species in functional cosmetic products but also proposes a model that can contribute to the local economy through the valorization of regional natural resources.