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Moumoujus

SASSAFRAS OFFICINALE BARK/ROOT EXTRACT.

Avoid CAS - / SKIN CONDITIONING, TONIC

Sassafras Officinale Bark/Root Extract is derived from the Sassafras tree, traditionally recognized for its purported analgesic, antiseptic, and anti-inflammatory properties due to components like tannic acid and Sassafrid. Despite historical uses, its inclusion in modern skincare is severely restricted and largely cautioned against due to significant safety concerns related to its safrole content.

Summary

Antimicrobial Perfuming Astringent

Science

Mechanism of Action

This extract's traditional skin health benefits are attributed to its content of tannic acid and a compound known as Sassafrid. While in vitro and animal studies suggest potential antifungal and anti-inflammatory effects, the precise mechanisms are not extensively defined in human topical applications. It has also been traditionally used as a demulcent, offering soothing properties.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Low confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Commonly dusted
Min. effective
0.01%
Red flag below
0.01%

Due to the severe safety concerns regarding safrole, a major constituent of sassafras, any formulation containing this extract would likely be 'dusted' if safrole is present. The International Fragrance Association (IFRA) restricts the total concentration of safrole, isosafrole, and dihydrosafrole to not exceed 0.01% in consumer products. This 0.01% serves as a critical red flag, making its use in significant or effective concentrations practically impossible and unsafe.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

The root bark contains both oil-soluble components (volatile oil, resin, wax) and water-soluble components (tannic acid, gum, albumen, starch, salts). This diverse composition allows for extraction using various polar and non-polar solvents, including alcohol, distilled water, and vegetable glycerin.

Conflicts

  • Safrole-containing extracts due to carcinogenic and hepatotoxic potential
  • Broken or abraded skin, as it may sting and cause rashes
  • Long-term use due to extensive safety concerns

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Not reviewed
Pregnancy
Caution
Sensitization risk High

Sassafras, particularly due to its safrole content, is considered LIKELY UNSAFE for topical application. Safrole is a known carcinogen and hepatotoxin (causes liver damage), leading the US FDA to ban sassafras oil and safrole from use as a drug or food product. Topical application can lead to skin rashes and stinging, especially on broken skin. Even 'safrole-free' versions are considered POSSIBLY UNSAFE, with some scientific opinion suggesting a residual cancer risk. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) has not assessed this ingredient, highlighting a lack of specific safety data for cosmetic applications, aside from the general regulatory warnings.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Avoid

Due to its primary constituent safrole being a recognized carcinogen and hepatotoxin, with regulatory bans and a 'worst' rating from INCIDecoder, Sassafras Officinale Bark/Root Extract is not recommended for use in precision skincare formulations.

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