Crinum asiaticum Linn. flowers commonly known as white lily flowers were explored to find flavonoids, so, thin layer chromatography was performed and some of the flavonoids were identified as flavon (Apigenine ), flavonol (Quercetin), flavan-3-ols (Catechin), isoflavones (Daidzein). flavonol (Fisetin, Myricetin and Kaempferol). The reported flavonoids were known to have sunscreen activity and hence SPF factor of the dried flower extract (aqueous) was incorporated in topical formulation and evaluated in vitro with the help of Optometric Model-290 SPF. Extraction of flowers was done in two steps; maceration in MeOH: Water (9:1) followed by maceration in MeOH: Water (1:1) respectively. The two extracts were combined and methanol was then evaporated with the help of rotary evaporator, the resultant aqueous extract was used for Thin Layer Chromatography and then into topical formulation. In vitro determination of SPF was done with the help of method specified by The Comité de Liaison de la Parfumerie in Europe (COLIPA). The SPF was found to be 1.17 and Boots Star rating as 3, indicating that Crinum asiaticum Linn flower extract (aqueous) can be considered as good candidate for Sunscreen or as an additive in any other sunscreen formulation.
Keywords: Sun Protection Factor, in vitro method, flavonoids, Crinum asiaticum L. (Amaryllidaceae) flowers.