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PIMENTA ACRIS LEAF OIL.

Avoid CAS 91721-75-4 / 8006-78-8 / FRAGRANCE

Pimenta Acris Leaf Oil, also known as West Indian Bay Oil, is an essential oil characterized by a rich profile of active compounds, including eugenol, β-myrcene, and D-limonene. Research indicates its potential for antioxidant, antimicrobial, and antifungal activities, alongside a moderate capacity for tyrosinase inhibition.

antioxidant antimicrobial antifungal masking tyrosinase inhibitor

Science

The biological activities of Pimenta Acris Leaf Oil are primarily driven by its dominant components, notably eugenol (frequently exceeding 70%), β-myrcene, and D-limonene. Its potent antioxidant effects stem from its ability to neutralize free radicals and exert reducing capabilities, as evidenced by in vitro assays such as FRAP, ABTS, DPPH, CUPRAC, and phosphomolybdenum activity, complemented by metal chelating properties. The oil exhibits antimicrobial and antifungal efficacy, thought to involve disruption of microbial growth and morphogenesis by interfering with plasma membrane ergosterol content and metabolic enzymes. Additionally, its moderate tyrosinase inhibitory activity suggests a mechanism that could influence the regulation of skin pigmentation.


Research

Medium confidence
Effective range 0.04–0.2%
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 Demonstrated high antioxidant capability across multiple in vitro assays (FRAP, ABTS, DPPH, CUPRAC, MCA, PBD) at a concentration of 0.2% (2 mg/mL).
  2. 02 Showed significant in vitro inhibition of α-amylase (up to 75%) and α-glucosidase (up to 61.42%) at 2.00 mg/mL, suggesting interaction with enzyme pathways.
  3. 03 Exhibited fungicidal properties, successfully suppressing the in vitro growth of Aspergillus flavus at a concentration of 0.04%.
  4. 04 Reduced the in vitro growth of Ralstonia solanacearum, a bacterium, across concentrations ranging from 0.04% to 0.14%.

Transparency

Not commonly dusted

Pimenta Acris Leaf Oil is a botanical essential oil with specific, albeit mostly in vitro, demonstrated bioactivities. It is not typically classified as a 'dusted' ingredient lacking substantive evidence in precision skincare.


The Formula

Solubility
Oil
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

Optimal stability is maintained by storing the oil in tightly sealed containers in a cool, dry environment, protected from both heat and direct light. It is critical to prevent exposure to flame, sparks, and overheating.

Conflicts

  • heat
  • sparks
  • open flames
  • hot surfaces

Safety

CIR Status
Not reviewed
Max tested
10%
Sensitization risk High

Although Pimenta Acris Leaf Oil is classified as Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a flavoring agent, its application in cosmetics carries significant safety warnings. Safety data sheets indicate it causes skin irritation (H315) and serious eye irritation (H319), and may induce an allergic skin reaction (H317). Of greater concern for precision skincare, it is suspected of causing genetic defects (H341) and cancer (H351). The ingredient's high eugenol content is a known sensitizer, contributing to its 'Restricted' status by EWG due to high concerns regarding allergies and immunotoxicity.


Your Skin

No Normal
No Dry
No Oily
No Sensitive
Irritancy High
Comedogenicity Unknown

Our Assessment

Avoid

Despite exhibiting in vitro antioxidant and antimicrobial activities, the substantial and documented risks of skin irritation, allergic reactions, and its suspected genotoxic and carcinogenic potential render Pimenta Acris Leaf Oil unsuitable for inclusion in precision skincare formulations.


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