Hedera Helix Leaf Water is a compound of natural origin obtained from ivy.
Industrial Production Process
The production of Hedera Helix (Ivy) Leaf Water involves a series of steps focused on leveraging the beneficial properties of ivy leaves for use in cosmetics and skincare products. This botanical water is valued for its soothing, anti-inflammatory, and skin-conditioning properties. Here's an overview of the process without the packaging and distribution steps:
- Harvesting - Ivy leaves are harvested, preferably when the active ingredient content is at its peak. Harvesting can be done manually or with mechanical methods.
- Preparation - The harvested leaves may be washed to remove surface impurities before extraction.
- Extraction - Ivy leaves are then subjected to steam distillation or hydrodistillation to extract the aromatic water. This method captures the ivy leaf water while preserving its volatile components and active ingredients.
- Purification - The obtained ivy leaf water is filtered to remove any residual impurities from the distillation process.
- Quality Control - Ivy extract undergoes quality control checks to verify the presence of active ingredients, purity, and the absence of contaminants, meeting the standards required for cosmetic use.
Form and Color
Typically appears as a dark green liquid or as a powder, depending on the method of extraction and concentration.
What it is for and where
Cosmetics - INCI Functions
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.
CAS 84082-54-2
EC number 282-000-2
Commercial Applications
Cosmetic Industry. Hedera Helix extract is widely used in cosmetic products for its astringent, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. It is found in creams, lotions, and skin care products.
Skin Benefits. Helps to reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and tone the skin, making it useful in anti-cellulite treatments and firming skin products.
Hair Care. Also used in some hair care products to promote scalp health and reduce dandruff.
Safety
Generally considered safe for topical use, but it can cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals or if applied in high concentrations.
Hedera Helix, commonly known as common ivy, is an evergreen climbing plant belonging to the Araliaceae family. It is used for its decorative properties, medicinal uses, and ground cover.
Chemical Composition and Properties
Ivy contains triterpenoid saponins such as hederasaponin B and hederacoside C, along with phenolic compounds and flavonoids. These compounds give the plant antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties.
Biological Activities
Studies have shown that ivy possesses antioxidant, antibacterial, and potential antitumor activities (1). It has also been evaluated for its antiviral properties and the treatment of inflammatory conditions.
Therapeutic Potential
Ivy is traditionally used to treat various respiratory conditions (2), such as bronchitis and asthma, due to its expectorant and mucolytic properties. It is also used in cosmetics for its astringent and skin-toning properties.
Industrial and Pharmaceutical Applications
Ivy extracts are used in the pharmaceutical industry for the production of medicines and dietary supplements. Furthermore, they are applied in cosmetics for the formulation of skincare products.
