Science
Mechanism of Action
The efficacy of Myrsine Africana Leaf Extract stems from its diverse phytochemical composition, including flavonoids, phenols, tannins, rutin, and quercetin. It functions as a potent antioxidant by neutralizing free radicals, such as hydrogen peroxide (IC50: 56.08 ± 2.88 µg/ml) and superoxide (IC50: 132.74 ± 1.64 µg/ml), thereby mitigating oxidative stress and cellular damage. Its anti-inflammatory action is primarily mediated through the inhibition of 5-lipoxygenase (IC50: 29.65 µg/ml), reducing inflammatory responses. Furthermore, it exhibits elastase inhibitory activity (IC50: 28.04 µg/mL), crucial for preserving elastin fibers and maintaining skin elasticity to diminish wrinkle appearance. The extract also demonstrates antityrosinase activity for pigmentation management and possesses antibacterial qualities against strains like S. aureus and S. pyogenes.
Research
Clinical Evidence
Medium confidence5%
Key findings
- 01 Effective in reducing wrinkles after topical application twice daily for 14 and 28 days in in vivo testing on human subjects (ethanolic extract in gel cream) compared to a placebo.
- 02 Reduced itching and erythema in patients with eczema over 4 weeks (small control groups).
- 03 Exhibited anti-inflammatory activity by inhibiting 5-lipoxygenase in an in vitro study.
- 04 Showed elastase inhibitory activity in vitro, linked to preventing skin aging.
- 05 Showed antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes in lab studies.
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
A gel cream containing Myrsine africana crude extract was found to be stable for two years when kept at temperatures below 30°C.
Safety
Safety Profile
In vitro testing indicated no toxicity at the highest concentrations, with low levels of toxicity noted in other in vitro studies. Acute oral toxicity in mice showed no mortality up to a dose of 5000 mg/kg, suggesting a robust safety margin, though specific therapeutic doses below 1000 mg/kg warranted caution for certain parameters. Human patch tests confirmed its non-irritant nature, demonstrating an irritancy potential of -9.00% relative to a 100% sodium lauryl sulphate positive control. The extract was also found to contain negligible levels of microorganisms and heavy metals.
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
Myrsine Africana Leaf Extract is a valuable multi-functional ingredient offering significant antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-aging, and skin brightening benefits with a low irritancy profile, making it suitable for diverse precision skincare formulations.
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References
Sources