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Moumoujus

OCIMUM BASILICUM SEED EXTRACT.

Valuable / ANTIOXIDANT

Ocimum Basilicum Seed Extract, derived from the seeds of the basil plant, is a multifunctional ingredient recognized for its robust antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. It aids in balancing sebum production, provides essential hydration, and supports overall skin health.

Summary

skin conditioning antioxidant anti-inflammatory antimicrobial hydrating moisturizing anti-aging sebum control

Science

Mechanism of Action

This extract functions through multiple biological pathways. Its rich composition, including rosmarinic acid, ferulic acid, rutin, and caffeic acids, provides significant antioxidant defense, protecting skin cells from environmental aggressors and mitigating UV-induced aging effects. It exerts anti-inflammatory actions by modulating key inflammatory pathways such as NF-κB, MAPK, and COX-LOX, thereby reducing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Furthermore, it demonstrates antimicrobial efficacy, particularly against microorganisms like Propionibacterium acnes, which are implicated in acne development. Basil seed mucilage contributes to its hydrating and moisturizing benefits, while the extract also helps to rebalance sebum production and may promote collagen synthesis, contributing to anti-aging effects.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Medium confidence
Effective range 0.01–10%
Optimal

N/A

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

The extract exhibits optimal stability and functionality within a concentration range of 0.01% to 10% by weight in cosmetic formulations. Formulations exceeding or falling below this range may encounter issues with product stability or diminished efficacy.

Conflicts

  • Potential for irritancy or sensitization may exist if the extract contains volatile compounds, such as linalool and eugenol, found in high concentrations (e.g., 5%) of Ocimum basilicum essential oil, where 2% was deemed safe. Similarly, skin-sensitizing tannins present in Ocimum basilicum leaf extract could pose a concern if analogous compounds are present in the seed extract, potentially leading to a constricting effect on surface cells.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Not reviewed
Max tested
10%
Sensitization risk Unknown

While Ocimum Basilicum (Basil) is classified as Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a food flavoring agent, the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has not conducted a specific review of 'Ocimum Basilicum Seed Extract'. Acute oral toxicity studies in Wistar rats reported an LD50 higher than 5 mg/kg for a hydroalcoholic extract. Subchronic oral toxicity studies up to 500 mg/kg demonstrated no adverse effects on serum parameters, though a reduction in hematocrit, platelets, and red blood cells was observed, indicating a potential target for oral toxicity in rats. For topical applications, while specific irritancy and comedogenicity for the seed extract remain unknown, related basil extracts like essential oils or leaf extracts have shown potential for irritation or sensitization due to compounds like linalool, eugenol, and tannins.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Unknown
Comedogenicity Unknown

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

Ocimum Basilicum Seed Extract is a versatile ingredient offering comprehensive benefits including antioxidant protection, anti-inflammatory action, hydration, and sebum regulation, positioning it as a valuable asset for diverse skincare formulations, despite limited direct topical human clinical trials for efficacy.

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