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Moumoujus

PIMENTA OFFICINALIS LEAF OIL.

Avoid CAS 84929-57-7 / 8006-77-7 / FRAGRANCE

Pimenta Officinalis Leaf Oil, derived from the Pimenta dioica plant, is an essential oil historically utilized for its astringent, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties. However, its significant irritancy potential and regulatory considerations for a key component necessitate extreme caution in skincare formulations.

Summary

Antimicrobial Antioxidant Astringent Perfuming Solvent Warming/Analgesic

Science

Mechanism of Action

This ingredient acts as an astringent by constricting the skin and tightening pores. Its eugenol content contributes to noticeable warming and analgesic sensations. The oil exhibits antimicrobial effects by disrupting bacterial cell wall synthesis (peptidoglycan), leading to osmotic imbalance and cell lysis, and by interfering with protein synthesis in bacterial ribosomes. Antifungal action is achieved by impacting the ergosterol content of plasma membranes and malate dehydrogenase activity. Additionally, it provides antioxidant benefits.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Medium confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted
Red flag below
6%

Due to its potent biological activity, significant irritancy profile, and the presence of restricted compounds like Methyl Eugenol, Pimenta Officinalis Leaf Oil is generally incorporated for specific functional claims at very low concentrations rather than as an inactive 'dusted' ingredient. A formulation containing Pimenta Officinalis Leaf Oil at or near 6.0% would be a significant red flag, as this represents the maximum permissible concentration for its Methyl Eugenol component in EU cosmetics, reflecting concerns over its classification as a suspected carcinogen and high sensitization potential.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Oil
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

As an essential oil, Pimenta Officinalis Leaf Oil is generally soluble in alcohol (e.g., 70% ethanol) and ether, but it is immiscible in water.

Conflicts

  • Known for its 'hot' or warming sensation, indicating a high potential for skin irritation at elevated concentrations.
  • Contains Methyl Eugenol, which is subject to strict regulatory concentration limits (e.g., max 6.0% in EU Council Cosmetic Directive 76/768/EEC Annex III) due to its classification as a suspected carcinogen and potential to induce allergic reactions.
  • Presents a general risk of skin irritation and sensitization across various concentrations.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Not reviewed
Max tested
6%
Sensitization risk High

Pimenta Officinalis Leaf Oil is associated with a high risk of skin irritation and sensitization. PubChem's GHS classifications include 'Causes skin irritation' (H315), 'May cause an allergic skin reaction' (H317), and 'Causes serious eye irritation' (H319). Critically, it is 'Suspected of causing cancer' (H351, Carc. 2). Its naturally occurring component, Methyl Eugenol, is restricted to a maximum concentration of 6.0% in cosmetic products within the EU due to these safety concerns. The EWG database further notes high concern for allergies and immunotoxicity, and low-to-moderate non-reproductive organ system toxicity.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Avoid

Despite exhibiting some promising antimicrobial and antioxidant activities, Pimenta Officinalis Leaf Oil is characterized by a high risk of skin irritation, allergic reactions, and contains a component (Methyl Eugenol) classified as a suspected carcinogen with strict regulatory limits, rendering it inappropriate for precision skincare applications.

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