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MELALEUCA LEUCADENDRON CAJUPUTI LEAF EXTRACT.

Valuable CAS 85480-37-1 / PERFUMING

Melaleuca Leucadendron Cajuputi Leaf Extract, also known as Cajeput oil, is a botanical ingredient derived from the Cajeput tree, highly valued for its notable antibacterial and antioxidant properties. This extract aids in addressing bacterial skin concerns and enhances the penetration of other active ingredients.

Summary

Antimicrobial Antiviral Penetration Enhancer Perfuming Antioxidant Counterirritant

Science

Mechanism of Action

The efficacy of Melaleuca Leucadendron Cajuputi Leaf Extract is primarily attributed to its rich content of flavonoids, phenolics, and especially 1,8-Cineole, which constitutes approximately 65% of the extract. 1,8-Cineole acts as a penetration enhancer, improving the delivery of other compounds into the skin. Its potent antibacterial mechanism involves causing structural damage to bacterial cells, specifically disrupting the integrity of their cell walls and membranes. This active component also exhibits binding affinities to crucial bacterial proteins, including membrane, peptide-binding, and penicillin-binding proteins. Additionally, cineole can provide a mild counterirritant effect on the skin, potentially offering relief from underlying discomfort.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Medium confidence
Effective range 0.25–2%
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 A methanolic extract demonstrated significant antibacterial activity, with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values ranging from 0.25 mg/mL to 2 mg/mL against various bacteria. After 12 hours of treatment at 1 × MIC, bacterial cells exhibited disrupted cell wall and membrane integrity.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The provided research does not indicate that this ingredient is commonly 'dusted' or used at ineffective concentrations in formulations. However, higher concentrations are known to cause irritation.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Oil
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

When formulated in water at concentrations exceeding 1%, Melaleuca leucadendra extract can lead to turbidity, a greenish-gray discoloration, and an unpleasant smell.

Conflicts

  • Must be heavily diluted with carrier oils prior to topical application to mitigate the risk of skin irritation.
  • Direct contact with eyes should be strictly avoided.
  • Contains geraniol, which is identified as an IFRA (International Fragrance Association) restricted component.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Not reviewed
Max tested
4%
Sensitization risk Moderate

Cajeput oil is generally considered possibly safe for most individuals when applied to unbroken skin, though certain individuals may experience allergic reactions. Due to its potential for irritation, substantial dilution is critical for topical skincare applications. The FDA does not regulate the purity or quality of essential oils for cosmetic use, although it is recognized as a natural flavoring substance under FDA PART 172.510. Usage levels up to 4.0% have been recommended for fragrance concentrates.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

Melaleuca Leucadendron Cajuputi Leaf Extract is a valuable ingredient for targeted skincare applications, particularly for its potent antibacterial and penetration-enhancing properties, though careful dilution is critical due to its moderate irritancy potential.

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