Science
Mechanism of Action
This extract operates through a sophisticated synergy of bioactive compounds, including flavonoids, phenolic acids, and terpenes. These constituents are adept at neutralizing reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, thereby mitigating oxidative stress and inflammatory responses. Its capacity to modulate inflammatory pathways such as NF-κB, MAPK, and COX-LOX leads to a reduction in pro-inflammatory mediators. Additionally, it exerts purifying effects, combating microorganisms like Propionibacterium acnes and assisting in balancing sebum production, contributing to clearer skin.
Research
Clinical Evidence
Medium confidence3%
Key findings
- 01 A 3% topical emulsion demonstrated anti-aging efficacy by increasing skin moisture content by 11.5%, reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL), and visibly improving skin roughness, scaliness, smoothness, and wrinkles, alongside an observed increase in skin energy.
- 02 A 3% microemulsion exhibited excellent skin tolerability in human subjects during a 3-day cumulative irritancy study, showing no clinically observable irritation or changes in TEWL values.
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
The extract contains water-soluble polyphenols such as rosmarinic acid, flavonoids, and tannins. If the extract includes linalool, a common component in basil essential oil, it is recommended to integrate antioxidants like 0.1% BHT or alpha-tocopherol during raw material processing to maintain stability and ensure peroxide levels remain below 20 mmol/l.
Safety
Safety Profile
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) has not specifically evaluated 'OCIMUM BASILICUM FLOWER/LEAF/STEM EXTRACT'. However, a broader 'BASIL, EXTRACT (OCIMUM BASILICUM L.)' is listed by the FDA as Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) for food use. Acute and subchronic oral toxicity studies indicate a hydroalcoholic O. basilicum extract as non-toxic with an oral LD50 greater than 5000 mg/kg. While a 3% concentration showed no irritation in human clinical trials, individuals with known allergies to basil or other Lamiaceae family plants should perform a patch test. The EWG Skin Deep® database flags 'Ocimum Basilicum (Sweet Basil) Extract' with a high concern for allergies & immunotoxicity and moderate for cancer, which merits consideration despite contradictory classifications from Environment Canada regarding toxicity.
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
Ocimum Basilicum Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract is a valuable botanical, offering significant anti-aging, hydrating, and soothing benefits, supported by clinical data at a 3% concentration and generally good skin compatibility.
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