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Moumoujus

LITSEA CUBEBA LEAF EXTRACT.

Questionable / ANTIOXIDANT

Litsea Cubeba Leaf Extract is a botanical active known for its diverse benefits, including potent antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. It also exhibits anti-inflammatory and antifungal actions, with research suggesting potential for skin brightening through inhibition of melanin production.

Summary

Antimicrobial Antibacterial Antifungal Antioxidant Anti-inflammatory Skin Brightening Deodorant Healing Preservative

Science

Mechanism of Action

This extract, primarily through its essential oil components, exerts antimicrobial and antifungal effects. It functions as an antioxidant, combating oxidative stress, and possesses anti-inflammatory capabilities. Additionally, it has demonstrated tyrosinase-inhibiting activity, which can lead to reduced melanin synthesis and subsequent skin brightening.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Medium confidence
Effective range 1–10%
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 In vitro studies demonstrated significant antibacterial activity against E. coli, achieving 86.80% inhibition at a concentration of 2.00 mg/mL of the essential oil from Litsea cubeba leaves. Broader antimicrobial and antioxidant activities were also observed in these studies.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Oil
Optimal pH 6.8 – 7.6
0 7 14

Stability

Litsea cubeba essential oil components are generally insoluble in water. While precise optimal pH for the leaf extract's stability is not detailed, essential oil studies have utilized buffer systems within the pH range of 6.8 to 7.6.

Conflicts

  • Aqueous bases (due to the oil-soluble nature of key components)
  • Ingredients that may heighten skin sensitivity, especially given the extract's natural citral content, which can be an irritant or allergen for some individuals.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Not reviewed
Sensitization risk Moderate

Litsea Cubeba Leaf Extract has not been reviewed by the CIR or FDA. The European Commission's SCCS indicates that Litsea Cubeba (May Chang) Oil carries 'some evidence of causing contact allergy in humans' and may 'cause an allergic skin reaction' or 'skin irritation'. EWG Skin Deep rates the related Litsea Cubeba Fruit Extract as 'MODERATE' for allergies and immunotoxicity. In vitro studies observed time-dependent cytotoxicity of the essential oil on human skin fibroblast cells after 48 hours, though formulated products demonstrated low toxicity.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Questionable

While offering promising benefits such as antimicrobial action and skin brightening, the ingredient's documented potential for skin irritation and allergic reactions necessitates cautious application and thorough safety assessment for precision skincare formulations.

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