Abstract
As a result of a study on antimicrobial activity, it was found that the extract of Dracocephalum ruyschiana L. exhibits pronounced antimicrobial properties. Based on these findings, the aim of our research is to conduct comprehensive studies aimed at developing a new dosage form—a gel based on this plant extract with antimicrobial activity. The research also aims to substantiate the formulation, production technology, methods of analysis, and bioavailability of the gel. The relevance of this work lies in expanding the search for new sources of plant-based pharmaceuticals that are both accessible and supported by a sufficient raw material base. For the analysis of polyphenolic compounds in the extracts, high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was used in combination with a UV detector and real-time tandem mass spectrometry (ESI-MS/MS). The extract of Dracocephalum ruyschiana L. was selected as the object of study. HPLC analysis showed that a 70% ethanol extract prepared with ultrasonic assistance contains up to 4.6% rosmarinic acid, which is largely responsible for its strong antimicrobial effect. Rosmarinic acid is a complex ester of caffeic acid and 3-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl)lactic acid. It belongs to the group of secondary metabolites and possesses a wide range of biological activities. Rosmarinic acid is an effective natural antioxidant that can provide protection against free radical-related pathologies such as atherosclerosis, coronary heart disease, cancer, and radiation sickness. It is believed to neutralize free oxygen radicals in the extracellular environment.