Science
Mechanism of Action
This botanical extract exerts its effects through several mechanisms: its anti-inflammatory action involves inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokine and nitric oxide (NO) production, reducing leukocyte migration to inflamed tissues, increasing the efferocytosis of apoptotic neutrophils, and modulating the secretion of IL-10 (up) and TNF (down), contributing to anti-hypersensitivity. Its antioxidant activity is attributed to phytochemicals like phenols, flavonoids, and saponins. Furthermore, it possesses antimicrobial and antifungal properties, largely due to its rich composition of tannins, terpenoids, alkaloids, flavonoids, and saponins, which collectively support overall skin conditioning.
Research
Clinical Evidence
Medium confidenceN/A
Key findings
- 01 Anti-inflammatory activity was demonstrated in mice via oral administration (0.1, 1, or 3 mg/kg), showing inhibition of cytokine and NO production, reduction of leukocyte migration, increased efferocytosis of apoptotic neutrophils, and modulation of IL-10 and TNF secretion.
- 02 In vitro DPPH assays revealed significant antioxidant scavenging activity in methanol extracts, with leaf extract at 120.264 µg/ml and flower extract at 121.7 µg/ml.
- 03 Aqueous leaf extracts displayed a 17 mm zone of inhibition against E. coli at a concentration of 10 mg/ml.
- 04 Aqueous extracts from leaf, stem, and root, at 0.625 g/ml, exhibited antibacterial efficacy comparable to Gentamicin against E. coli and K. pneumoniae.
- 05 Crude extracts showed Minimum Inhibitory Concentrations (MIC) between 1.56 mg and 6.25 mg, and Minimum Bactericidal Concentrations (MBC) between 12.50 mg and 25.00 mg against various bacterial strains.
- 06 An aqueous extract significantly promoted wound healing in rats, achieving a 48.0% healing rate after 14 days, compared to 22.0% for silver sulphadiazine.
- 07 Aqueous extracts prepared from 120 g of leaves per liter of water effectively suppressed the growth of the pathogenic fungus Colletotrichum gloeosporioides.
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
Bioactive compound release is responsive to pH, with higher release observed at pH 7.4 compared to pH 2.2 when microencapsulated. Microencapsulation is indicated as a method to enhance stability and ensure controlled release of the active ingredients.
Safety
Safety Profile
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR), SCCS, and FDA have not specifically reviewed Tithonia Diversifolia Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract. Dermal and eye irritation tests in rabbits indicated no signs of topical toxicity, with an LD50 exceeding 2000 mg/kg, suggesting a low potential for topical irritancy. While some studies noted cytotoxicity at certain concentrations, these effects were reported as reversible. Oral toxicity observed in rats at high dosages (200–800 mg/kg) is not directly relevant to topical cosmetic application.
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
Tithonia Diversifolia Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract is a valuable botanical offering robust anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial benefits, making it highly promising for diverse skincare applications, particularly for compromised or sensitive skin.
Related
Similar Ingredients
Finding similar ingredients…
References
Sources