Enhancing the Cosmetic Potential of Vitex trifolia L. Extract: An Approach of Aqueous–Polyol Mixture in Ultrasound‐Assisted Extraction for Wound‐Healing and Antioxidant Properties

This research aimed to optimize solvent concentration and extraction conditions for total phenolic content (TPC) and antioxidant activity (DPPH and ABTS) in VT leaves using ultrasound‐assisted extraction (UAE). A simplex‐lattice design incorporating an aqueous–polyol mixture and a central composite design (CCD) within response surface methodology (RSM) were utilized. The optimal solvent composition was determined to be 37.32% w/v aqueous, 26.87% w/v glycerin, and 35.81% w/v butylene glycol, with an ideal solvent‐to‐sample ratio of 33.21:1 mL/g and an extraction duration of 15 min. UAE with the aqueous–butylene glycol–glycerin (U‐BG) mixture significantly enhanced TPC and antioxidant activity compared to conventional maceration methods ( p < 0.05). Key bioactive compounds identified included Orientalol E, (+)‐15‐Beyeren‐3‐one, and petunidin‐3‐O‐arabinoside. The U‐BG extract exhibited higher cell viability and antioxidant activity compared with ethanol‐based extracts and demonstrated strong wound‐healing properties, achieving effective wound closure within 20 h. This study underscores the potential of aqueous–polyol extraction for enhancing bioactive compound recovery, offering sustainable solutions for the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries.