Science
Mechanism of Action
The extract's anti-inflammatory properties are attributed to bioactive constituents such as quercetin-3-O-α-L-rhamnopyranoside, other flavonoids, and tannins. Its antioxidant capacity is demonstrated through free radical scavenging and ferric reducing power, likely due to its rich polyphenol content. It functions as a skin conditioning agent.
Research
Clinical Evidence
Low confidenceN/A
Key findings
- 01 Ethanol extracts administered orally (200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg) exhibited significant anti-inflammatory activity in various animal models, including egg-albumin-induced paw edema and xylene-induced topical ear edema. These extracts were also non-ulcerogenic at the tested doses.
- 02 Ethanol leaf extract and its fractions, particularly the ethyl acetate fraction, demonstrated robust antioxidant activities in vitro, including DPPH scavenging, nitric oxide scavenging, and ferric reducing anti-oxidant power (FRAP). The ethyl acetate fraction achieved an IC50 of 45.72 ± 0.16 µg/mL for DPPH scavenging.
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
While showing promising in vitro and animal data, there is currently insufficient human topical clinical research to suggest this ingredient is commonly 'dusted' or over-represented in cosmetic formulations without direct evidence of efficacy on human skin.
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
Ethanolic and methanolic extracts are common preparations, with various fractions (n-hexane, ethyl acetate, butanol, water) indicating a diverse range of soluble compounds. The natural extract possesses a sweet, woody, earthy, rich, and tenacious odor, but solvent notes can be distinctly perceptible.
Safety
Safety Profile
No specific safety assessments from CIR or SCCS were identified. The FDA classifies it as a 'cosmetic and fragrance agent,' but without explicit approval or restriction for cosmetic use. Animal studies indicated ethanolic extracts were non-ulcerogenic at oral doses of 200-400 mg/kg, and acute toxicity tests up to 5000 mg/kg in rodents showed no signs of toxicity. However, one study suggested that long-term *internal* use (90 days) in animals at doses of 62.5-500 mg/kg 'may be hepatotoxic and nephrotoxic,' although these toxicities were reversible. No data on skin allergies or irritation were found by EWG for topical applications.
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
Dryopteris filix-mas Leaf Extract demonstrates promising antioxidant capabilities in vitro and anti-inflammatory effects in animal models, yet comprehensive human topical clinical data is currently insufficient to definitively establish its efficacy and safety for skin applications.
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