Science
Mechanism of Action
Uncaria Gambir Extract exerts its benefits through a diverse array of mechanisms, primarily attributed to its high concentration of polyphenolic compounds, including catechins and tannins. It functions as a robust antioxidant, actively neutralizing free radicals to protect skin cells from oxidative stress and thereby preserving collagen and elastin integrity crucial for youthful skin structure. Furthermore, its significant antibacterial and antimicrobial properties help combat various bacterial strains, making it effective in managing skin conditions like acne. The extract also demonstrates anti-inflammatory activity, which helps to mitigate redness and irritation. Its high tannin content provides astringent effects, contributing to skin firming and refining. Beyond these, it supports wound healing processes, offers photoprotective benefits by absorbing UV radiation and reducing associated oxidative damage, and exhibits antifibrotic properties by inhibiting the proliferation and migration of keloid fibroblasts.
Research
Clinical Evidence
Medium confidence0.05%
Key findings
- 01 In vitro studies demonstrated non-cytotoxicity to mouse embryonic fibroblast cells at concentrations ranging from 2.5 to 100 ppm and to human gingival fibroblast cells at 250 and 500 µg/mL, with 500 µg/mL showing optimal cell viability. [3, 9]
- 02 An ethanolic fraction effectively inhibited keloid fibroblast proliferation and migration, exhibiting selective cytotoxic effects on these specific cells at concentrations from 64.38 µg/mL to 257.52 µg/mL, highlighting its antifibrotic potential. [10]
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
The provided research data does not contain sufficient information to assess if Uncaria Gambir Extract is commonly 'dusted' or to establish specific dusting thresholds.
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
Its key active compounds, particularly catechins, are soluble in hot water and alcohol, and easily disperse in water. Catechins can degrade or convert into catechu tannic acid (tannins) when exposed to high temperatures (e.g., 110 °C) or strongly alkaline carbonate solutions. Optimal stability and high antioxidant activity are maintained through processing methods such as freeze-drying at -55°C. [2, 6, 15, 16]
Conflicts
- High heat (e.g., 110 °C) can convert catechins into tannins, potentially altering the extract's chemical profile and activity. [2]
- Alkaline carbonate solutions can also cause the conversion of catechins to tannins. [2]
Safety
Safety Profile
In vitro studies confirm non-cytotoxicity to various fibroblast cell types at concentrations up to 500 µg/mL (0.05%). However, prolonged exposure or concentrations exceeding 500-1000 ppm may demonstrate cellular toxicity in specific culture models. Regulatory guidelines from BPOM (Indonesian FDA equivalent) specify limits for metal contaminants, such as lead (≤10 mg/kg) and arsenic (≤0.3 mg/kg), to ensure product safety. Independent assessments by SkinSAFE and INCI Beauty indicate it is 'Irritant Free' and poses 'No penalty,' respectively, suggesting a favorable safety profile regarding irritation and comedogenicity. [3, 9, 11, 17, 20]
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
Uncaria Gambir Extract is a valuable botanical ingredient, offering comprehensive benefits from potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory action to antimicrobial and antifibrotic properties, with a favorable safety profile across all skin types.
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