Science
Mechanism of Action
LEONURUS SIBIRICUS FLOWER/LEAF/STEM EXTRACT acts through multiple pathways to improve skin health. It efficiently reduces intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) and mitigates lipid peroxidation, protecting cellular structures. The extract stimulates DNA repair mechanisms and enhances the expression of key antioxidant genes, including SOD2, CAT, and GPx. It also actively suppresses UVB-induced cytotoxicity and cell death, and can reduce MMP-9 expression. Its anti-inflammatory effects may involve the modulation of NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways. Rich in bioactive compounds such as diterpenes, triterpenes, flavonoids (e.g., quercetin, rutin), phenolic acids (e.g., chlorogenic, caffeic, ferulic acids), and alkaloids (e.g., leonurine, stachydrine), it also confers astringent, healing, moisturizing, soothing, and anti-edema properties.
Research
Clinical Evidence
Medium confidenceN/A
Key findings
- 01 At a concentration of 0.5 mg/mL, the extract demonstrated protective effects and stimulated DNA repair in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells exposed to H2O2, concurrently elevating the expression of antioxidant genes (SOD2, CAT, GPx).
- 02 In HS68 fibroblast cells, concentrations ranging from 0.25-8 mg/mL effectively suppressed UVB-induced cytotoxicity and cell death, and dose-dependently inhibited intracellular ROS generation and lipid peroxidation.
- 03 Topical application of 0.3-3 mg/ear in mice significantly reduced edema, myeloperoxidase activity, and levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (tumoral necrosis factor-α and interleukin-1β), while decreasing lipoperoxidation and increasing antioxidant capacity (FRAP) in ear tissue.
- 04 An animal model showed that an aqueous extract facilitated a superior wound healing evolution with reduced inflammatory exudate, leading to a more homogeneous appearance.
- 05 At 0.312 mg/mL and 0.625 mg/mL, the extract inhibited arginase mRNA expression in WI-38 and HFL1 cells by 43.9-42% and 27.3-32.6% respectively, indicating potential in modulating tissue remodeling.
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
Ethanolic extracts, particularly those rich in leonurine, have shown stability within a pH buffer range of 7.8-8.0 during analytical quantification. However, formulations containing this extract may require a preservative (e.g., 0.4% Phenonip) due to its susceptibility to microbial growth. The presence of phenolic compounds and amino acids can also influence its overall solubility and stability within a cosmetic matrix.
Safety
Safety Profile
Specific safety assessments for LEONURUS SIBIRICUS FLOWER/LEAF/STEM EXTRACT in cosmetic formulations by regulatory bodies such as CIR, SCCS, or FDA are not currently available. General safety information on Leonurus (Motherwort) indicates a high level of safety at standard oral doses, with potential liver and kidney toxicity observed only at extremely high doses, typically associated with oral consumption.
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
Leonurus Sibiricus Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract is a valuable, multi-functional botanical ingredient that offers significant antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and reparative benefits for all skin types, based on promising in-vitro and animal studies.
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References
Sources