Aspalathus Linearis Water is a naturally occurring compound derived from the plant of the same name belonging to the Fabaceae family also known by the name Rooibos.
Industrial Production Process
Leaf Harvesting. Aspalathus Linearis leaves are harvested in the mountainous regions of South Africa, where the plant naturally grows. Harvesting is done manually to preserve the quality of the leaves.
Steam Distillation. The collected leaves undergo steam distillation. In this process, steam passes through the leaves, capturing the plant's volatile compounds and active ingredients.
Condensation. The steam carrying the active compounds is then cooled in a condenser, where it returns to a liquid state. This liquid, known as hydrosol or floral water, contains the water-soluble substances of the Aspalathus Linearis plant.
Collection of Water. The water obtained from condensation is collected. This water retains the beneficial properties of the plant, including antioxidants and soothing components.
Filtration and Purification. Aspalathus Linearis water can be further filtered to remove any impurities and ensure the purity of the final product.
Quality Control. Before bottling, Aspalathus Linearis water undergoes quality control checks to ensure its composition, purity, and the absence of contaminants. These tests can include microbiological and chemical analyses.
What it is used for and where
Cosmetics - INCI Functions
Humectant. Hygroscopic compound used to minimise water loss in the skin and to prevent it from drying out by facilitating faster and greater absorption of water into the stratum corneum of the epidermis. The epidermis is the most superficial of the three layers that make up human skin (epidermis, dermis and hypodermis) and is the layer that maintains hydration in all three layers. In turn, the epidermis is composed of five layers: horny, the most superficial, granular, spinous, shiny, and basal. Humectants have the ability to retain the water they attract from the air in the stratum corneum and have the function of moisturising the skin. They are best used before emollients, which are oil-based.
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.
Commercial Applications
Herbal Teas and Infusions. Aspalathus linearis leaves are widely used to make rooibos tea, a caffeine-free beverage with a sweet and slightly nutty taste. This tea is valued for its hydrating ability, serving as an excellent alternative to black or green tea for those looking to limit their caffeine intake.
Cosmetic Products. Thanks to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and soothing properties, rooibos leaf extract is incorporated into various cosmetic products, including skin creams, moisturizing lotions, and treatments for sensitive skin care, to help nourish and protect the skin.
Dietary Supplements. Supplements containing Aspalathus linearis leaf extract are used to take advantage of its antioxidant benefits, supporting cardiovascular health, improving resistance to oxidative stress, and promoting overall health.Rooibos extract is also used in specific products for treating skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and acne, thanks to its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.
Safety
Aspalathus Linearis Water is a cosmetic product generally considered safe.
