Abstract

This study investigated the antioxidant properties and topical cream formulation of Lavandula angustifolia L. (lavender) essential oil, with a specific focus on samples cultivated in Mardan, Pakistan. Essential oil was extracted using steam distillation and characterized via Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (GC–MS), revealing linalool (35.2%) and linalyl acetate (30.8%) as the major constituents. The antioxidant activity was evaluated using the DPPH radical scavenging assay, demonstrating strong dose-dependent inhibition with an IC₅₀ value of 47 µg/mL. A herbal cream incorporating 3% lavender essential oil was formulated and tested for physical characteristics (pH 5.8, viscosity 1500 cP) and antioxidant retention (68.5% inhibition). Stability studies conducted over 3 months under different storage conditions (room temperature, 4°C, and 40°C) confirmed that the cream remained stable in terms of pH, viscosity, and physical appearance, except for minor changes at 40°C. These findings validate the therapeutic potential of L. angustifolia essential oil as a natural antioxidant and support its use in the development of skin-friendly herbal cosmetic formulations. The study also highlights the potential of Mardan as a viable region for lavender cultivation and essential oil production.