Science
Mechanism of Action
This extract's efficacy stems from a diverse array of phytochemicals, including alkaloids, fatty acids, terpenoids, steroids, flavonoids, phenolic acids, tannins, and saponins. These compounds collectively confer significant antimicrobial action against bacteria and fungi, reduce inflammation, and neutralize free radicals. Its astringent effect is primarily attributed to tannins, which can bind to and precipitate proteins, contributing to skin conditioning and supporting wound healing processes.
Research
Clinical Evidence
Medium confidence2%
Key findings
- 01 A 50% aqueous ethanol extract at 2% concentration effectively inhibited 95.9% of tested microbial isolates, while 0.5% inhibited 36.5%.
- 02 Methanol and chloroform extracts demonstrated high antibacterial effects against tested strains at 5% and 20% concentrations respectively.
- 03 Minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentrations (MBC) against microbial strains ranged between 0.625 mg/mL and 10 mg/mL.
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
The extract contains active metabolites soluble in polar solvents like water and methanol, with some lipophilic components extractable by oil-soluble solvents. Aqueous extracts naturally present an acidic pH (≤ 5.33), while a prepared extract demonstrated stability within a highly alkaline range (pH 11.0 – 11.5). Crucially, exposure to light is noted to diminish its antimicrobial efficacy.
Safety
Safety Profile
Alchornea Cordifolia Leaf Extract currently lacks specific safety reviews by CIR, SCCS, or FDA for cosmetic application. Oral, dermal, and inhalation toxicity for cosmetic use remain undetermined. Animal studies indicated oral safety up to 1000 mg/kg, but liver damage was observed at 2000 mg/kg orally over two weeks. It is not recommended for use as a fragrance or flavor ingredient.
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
While Alchornea Cordifolia Leaf Extract demonstrates promising antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activities in vitro, further formal cosmetic safety evaluations are required to determine its definitive suitability for precision skincare formulations.
Related
Similar Ingredients
Finding similar ingredients…
References
Sources