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Moumoujus

LARREA TRIDENTATA EXTRACT.

Valuable / SKIN CONDITIONING

Larrea Tridentata Extract is a botanical active renowned for its potent antioxidant, antimicrobial, and purifying properties. Rich in polyphenolic compounds, it effectively mitigates oxidative stress and offers broad-spectrum defense against various microorganisms, contributing to clearer, healthier-looking skin.

Summary

antioxidant purifying antimicrobial anti-inflammatory

Science

Mechanism of Action

This extract functions as a powerful antioxidant by effectively scavenging free radicals and significantly reducing the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Its antioxidant benefits are attributed to a rich profile of polyphenolic compounds, including nordihydroguaiaretic acid (NDGA), quercetin, and kaempferol. Additionally, it exhibits antimicrobial effects by disrupting bacterial ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transport systems, leading to bacterial death. It also possesses anti-inflammatory capabilities, particularly against leukotriene-mediated inflammation, and has purifying effects beneficial for managing oily and blemish-prone skin.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Medium confidence
Effective range 0.5–5%
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 Significantly reduced reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation in H2O2-stressed human neuroblastoma cells, demonstrating antioxidant and cytoprotective effects.
  2. 02 Exhibited antibacterial activity against various bacteria, including E. faecalis, S. aureus, and MRSA, with ethanolic extracts showing high inhibitory effects.
  3. 03 Successfully utilized in medical treatments for athlete's foot and viral lesions caused by herpes simplex virus (HSV-1, HSV-2).
  4. 04 Typical use level in cosmetic formulations for its antioxidant and purifying effects, demonstrating efficacy without adverse effects on non-cancerous cells up to 120 µg/mL (in vitro).

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

To ensure non-toxicity, the plant material should be extracted using an organic solvent and subsequently saturated with a reducing agent (e.g., ascorbic acid, BHA, BHT). This process converts the potentially toxic NDGA quinone back to NDGA. Additional reducing agents can be incorporated to prevent further oxidation of NDGA during manufacturing and storage.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Not reviewed
Max tested
5%
Sensitization risk Unknown

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has not evaluated Larrea Tridentata Extract. Nordihydroguaiaretic acid (NDGA), a primary compound, had its 'generally recognized as safe' (GRAS) status revoked by the FDA for food use due to reported hepatotoxicity and renal damage in animal studies. While reports of chaparral toxicity are inconsistent, oral consumption of capsules is discouraged. Topical application of extracts in small concentrations, especially when formulated to reduce NDGA quinone, is considered safe, though caution is advised for individuals with a history of liver disease. Typical cosmetic use levels range from 0.5% to 5%.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

No Normal
No Dry
Yes Oily
No Sensitive
Irritancy Unknown
Comedogenicity Unknown

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

Larrea Tridentata Extract offers valuable antioxidant, antimicrobial, and purifying benefits for the skin, provided it is precisely formulated to mitigate potential toxicity risks associated with its constituent nordihydroguaiaretic acid (NDGA).

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