Centella asiatica, also known as Gotu kola, is a plant belonging to the botanical family Apiaceae widely used in traditional Chinese medicine and in Southeast Asian countries for its medicinal properties.
What it is for and where
Medical
Research has shown that Centella asiatica and its triterpenoids possess a wide range of beneficial effects, particularly on neurological and skin diseases (1). These effects include anti-inflammatory properties, anti-oxidative stress, anti-apoptotic actions, and improvements in mitochondrial function.
The plant has been used in the treatment of various health problems and is also consumed as an edible vegetable. Its ease of availability and low-cost cultivation make it popular in ethno-medicinal healthcare systems. Phytochemical analyses have revealed that Centella asiatica contains bioactive compounds that demonstrate pharmacological effects and health benefits, some of which have been confirmed in preclinical and clinical studies. These findings support the principles of folk treatment in different countries.
Furthermore, Centella asiatica extracts (CAE) have shown activity in tissue regeneration, cell migration, and wound repair processes. This is achieved by promoting fibroblast proliferation and collagen synthesis. Asiatic acid, a main active constituent of Centella asiatica, is directly associated with its healing activity. This highlights the plant's potential in the treatment of various skin diseases and in wound healing.
Overall, Centella asiatica holds significant therapeutic potential, with a range of applications in treating diseases and in cosmetic formulations. However, more clinical studies are needed to further validate these benefits and understand the molecular mechanisms involved.
Cosmetics
In terms of cosmetic use, Centella asiatica-derived ingredients, primarily functioning as skin conditioning agents, have been assessed for safety. The conclusion is that these ingredients are safe for use in cosmetics under current practices and concentrations, provided they are formulated to be non-sensitizing. Centella Asiatica contains various bioactive compounds, including asiaticoside, madecassoside, and asiatic acid, which contribute to the skin health benefits.
Centella Asiatica Extract
- Extraction of bioactive compounds from the leaves and stems of Centella Asiatica. This can be done using solvents such as water, ethyl alcohol, or a combination of both.
- Purification. After extraction, the solution containing the bioactive compounds is purified to concentrate the active ingredients and remove impurities and solvent residues.
- Quality Control. The Centella Asiatica leaf/stem extract undergoes quality testing to ensure it meets the required standards in terms of purity and concentration of bioactive compounds.
INCI Functions:
Cleansing agent. Ingredient that cleanses skin without exploiting the surface-active properties that produce a lowering of the surface tension of the stratum corneum.
Skin conditioning agent. It is the mainstay of topical skin treatment as it has the function of restoring, increasing or improving skin tolerance to external factors, including melanocyte tolerance. The most important function of the conditioning agent is to prevent skin dehydration, but the subject is rather complex and involves emollients and humectants that can be added in the formulation.
Smoothing. The function of this component is to make the surface of the skin more even, reducing roughness and irregularities.
Soothing. Ingredient with the task of restoring moisture to the skin, helping in the healing process of irritation, inflammation and skin disorders.
Tonic. This product is used to treat the hair when the scalp is clean or after shampooing. It stimulates hair growth, revitalises the scalp for healthy hair growth and reduces hair loss. It provides a feeling of well-being on skin and hair.
Form and Color.
Centella Asiatica extract is typically a liquid or a powder. The color can range from light green to brown, depending on the concentration and extraction method.
CAS 84696-21-9
EC number 283-640-5
