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Moumoujus

OCIMUM TENUIFLORUM EXTRACT.

Valuable / SKIN CONDITIONING

Ocimum Tenuiflorum Extract, also recognized as Holy Basil or Tulsi, is a botanical active distinguished by its comprehensive benefits for skin health. It delivers potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory action, effectively safeguarding the skin from environmental stressors while diminishing redness and irritation. This extract further promotes accelerated wound healing, offers broad-spectrum antimicrobial protection, and enhances the skin's adaptive responses to external challenges.

Summary

Antioxidant Anti-inflammatory Antimicrobial Adaptogen Wound Healing Astringent Hydrating Soothing Barrier Support

Science

Mechanism of Action

Ocimum Tenuiflorum Extract exerts its dermal effects through multifaceted biological pathways. It functions as a powerful antioxidant, neutralizing free radicals and mitigating environmental damage to support healthy aging and minimize visible signs like fine lines. Its robust anti-inflammatory properties, achieved by inhibiting cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase pathways, effectively reduce redness, irritation, and swelling associated with conditions such as acne, eczema, and rosacea. Furthermore, it exhibits antimicrobial activity against blemish-causing bacteria, possesses adaptogenic qualities to help the skin respond to external stressors and regulate sebum, and actively promotes wound healing by enhancing cell migration and stimulating angiogenesis. The extract also contributes to skin hydration, barrier integrity, and offers mild astringent benefits for improved tone.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Medium confidence
Effective range 1–5%
Optimal

1-5%

Key findings

  1. 01 In vitro studies demonstrated significant wound healing, with Ocimum Tenuiflorum leaf extract at concentrations as low as 12.5 µg/mL accelerating closure by nearly 100% within 12 hours, and 200 µg/mL achieving approximately 90% closure in the same timeframe.
  2. 02 Tulsi essential oil exhibited potent antimicrobial effects, completely inhibiting the growth of Staphylococcus aureus (including MRSA) and Escherichia coli at concentrations of 2.25% and 4.5%. Partial inhibition against Pseudomonas aeruginosa was also observed.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

Ocimum Tenuiflorum Extract is generally water-soluble, often prepared using water/glycerine as a solvent, with preservatives such as potassium sorbate, sodium benzoate, and citric acid for pH management. Challenges with stability and dissolution, particularly for aqueous leaf extracts, can be mitigated through techniques like solid dispersion with lecithin complexation, enhancing stability when stored at 4°C.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Not reviewed
Sensitization risk Low

Ocimum Tenuiflorum Extract is widely regarded as safe for topical application in cosmetics. While generally non-toxic, individuals with botanical sensitivities should conduct patch tests. Adhering to recommended usage concentrations is crucial to minimize potential irritation, particularly for sensitive skin types. Pregnant or nursing individuals are advised to seek professional medical consultation before use. Oral toxicity assessments in rats indicate non-genotoxic properties and safety up to 5000 mg/kg body weight.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Low

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

Ocimum Tenuiflorum Extract is a valuable multi-functional ingredient, offering potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties, alongside adaptogenic and wound-healing benefits, making it suitable for a wide range of skin concerns and types.

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