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OCIMUM AMERICANUM LEAF OIL.

Valuable CAS 91845-26-0; 1193393-25-7 / FRAGRANCE, PERFUMING

Ocimum americanum Leaf Oil, derived from the American basil plant, is a natural essential oil celebrated for its multi-functional properties in skincare. It offers notable antioxidant, antimicrobial, and antifungal benefits, making it a promising ingredient for targeted treatments, particularly within acne care.

Antioxidant Antimicrobial Antifungal Fragrance Antibacterial

Science

This essential oil exerts its effects through a rich composition of active compounds, including carvotanacetol and estragole. These components provide significant antibacterial activity, aiding in the reduction of acne-causing bacteria. Additionally, its inherent antioxidant and antifungal properties support overall skin health by neutralizing free radicals and managing microbial balance.


Research

Medium confidence
Effective range 2–3%
Optimal

2%

Key findings

  1. 01 Formulations containing 2% Ocimum oil were well tolerated without inducing skin irritation and demonstrated superior efficacy in managing acne vulgaris compared to a 10% benzoyl peroxide lotion.
  2. 02 A 3% Ocimum oil microemulsion was confirmed to be safe and well tolerated on human skin, with no clinically observable irritations reported.

Transparency

Commonly dusted
Min. effective
5%
Red flag below
5%

While demonstrating significant benefits at lower, clinically tested concentrations, Ocimum americanum Leaf Oil, like other essential oils, presents a risk of irritation at higher percentages. Studies indicate that concentrations of 5% or above may induce mild burning, skin darkening, and pruritus, warranting careful formulation to remain below this threshold despite its beneficial properties.


The Formula

Solubility
Oil
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

The essential oil itself has an approximate acidic pH of 3.39 ± 0.31. Specific optimal pH ranges for maintaining formulation stability have not been precisely determined.


Safety

CIR Status
Not reviewed
Max tested
3%
Sensitization risk Moderate

No official safety assessments from CIR, SCCS, or FDA specifically for Ocimum americanum Leaf Oil are currently available. Studies on related Ocimum species suggest that concentrations up to 3% are generally safe and well-tolerated on human skin. However, concentrations exceeding 5% have been linked to skin irritation, including mild burning, skin-darkening effects, and pruritus. Dermal toxicity for this specific oil is not determined.


Your Skin

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

Our Assessment

Valuable

Ocimum americanum Leaf Oil is a valuable ingredient, particularly for acne-prone skin, demonstrating potent antibacterial and antioxidant benefits when precisely formulated at concentrations up to 3%.


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