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SANGUINARIA CANADENSIS ROOT EXTRACT.

Avoid CAS 84929-48-6 / SKIN CONDITIONING

Sanguinaria Canadensis Root Extract, derived from the Bloodroot plant, contains the potent alkaloid sanguinarine. While historically recognized for its antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, its application in skincare is severely limited by significant safety concerns. This extract exhibits highly corrosive characteristics, posing substantial risks to skin health.

cleansing refreshing skin conditioning tonic

Science

The primary active component, sanguinarine, contributes to both antioxidant and antibacterial effects, and in vitro studies suggest anti-inflammatory activity through the inhibition of leukotriene and prostaglandin production. It is also noted to encourage damaged skin cell release, suggesting a gentle exfoliant action. However, sanguinarine is also known to inhibit NF-kB, transcellular glucose transport, mitosis, and vascular endothelial growth factor. Crucially, it possesses corrosive (escharotic) properties that can induce tissue necrosis, leading to dark scab formation and potentially altering Bcl-2 gene family expression to accelerate cell death.


Research

Low confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A


Transparency

Commonly dusted
Red flag below
0%

Due to severe safety concerns, including its known corrosive properties and potential to cause tissue necrosis and scarring, Sanguinaria Canadensis Root Extract is considered a red-flag ingredient. Any concentration carries inherent risks, making it unsuitable for cosmetic formulations.


The Formula

Solubility
Unknown
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Conflicts

  • Corrosive at higher concentrations
  • Can cause tissue necrosis with topical application

Safety

CIR Status
Not reviewed
Pregnancy
Caution
Sensitization risk High

Sanguinaria Canadensis Root Extract is considered POSSIBLY UNSAFE for topical application. It contains sanguinarine, a poisonous alkaloid compound capable of damaging skin cells and tissues, leading to necrosis, burns, severe scarring, and disfigurement, particularly in undiluted forms (e.g., 'black salve'). Even in diluted compounds, skin irritation is known to occur. The FDA has identified 'black salve' containing bloodroot as a 'Fake Cancer 'Cure'' to be avoided. Furthermore, dental products containing bloodroot were banned in the U.S. in 2016 due to established links to oral cancer and lesions.


Your Skin

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

Our Assessment

Avoid

Sanguinaria Canadensis Root Extract poses significant health risks, including severe skin damage, necrosis, and potential carcinogenicity, making it entirely unsuitable for cosmetic application.


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