Description

Melissa Officinalis Leaf/Stem Oil, commonly known as lemon balm oil, is a volatile essential oil obtained from the leaves and stems of the Melissa officinalis plant, belonging to the Lamiaceae family. This oil is highly valued in the cosmetic and personal care industry for its soothing, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties. Melissa officinalis has a long history of use in traditional medicine for its calming and healing effects.

Chemical Composition and Structure
Melissa Officinalis Leaf/Stem Oil contains a variety of bioactive compounds that contribute to its beneficial effects on the skin. The specific composition includes:

Citrals (Geranial and Neral): Provide a lemon-like fragrance and have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Citronellal: Offers soothing and insect-repellent benefits.
Linalool: Known for its calming and anti-inflammatory effects.
Geraniol: Provides antioxidant and antimicrobial benefits.
Rosmarinic Acid: A potent antioxidant that helps protect the skin from free radical damage.
Physical Properties
Melissa Officinalis Leaf/Stem Oil typically appears as a pale yellow to light brown liquid with a fresh, lemon-like fragrance. It is highly volatile and soluble in alcohols and oils, making it suitable for various cosmetic formulations.

Cosmetic and Personal Care Applications
Soothing: The oil has strong soothing properties, making it beneficial for calming irritated or sensitive skin.

Antioxidant Protection: The presence of rosmarinic acid and other antioxidants helps protect the skin from environmental stressors and free radical damage.

Antimicrobial: Melissa Officinalis Leaf/Stem Oil has antimicrobial properties that help inhibit the growth of bacteria, fungi, and other pathogens, making it useful in formulations aimed at acne-prone skin.

Anti-Inflammatory: The oil’s anti-inflammatory compounds help reduce redness and swelling, providing relief for conditions like eczema and rosacea.

Aromatherapy: Its pleasant lemon-like fragrance is used in aromatherapy to promote relaxation and reduce stress.

Insect Repellent: Citronellal in the oil provides natural insect-repellent properties, making it a valuable addition to insect repellent products.

Environmental and Safety Considerations

Melissa Officinalis Leaf/Stem Oil is generally considered safe for use in cosmetic and personal care products. However, it should be used with caution, as it can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some individuals. It is important to conduct patch tests before use, especially for those with sensitive skin. The oil is derived from a sustainable and renewable plant source, contributing to its environmental friendliness.

Cosmetics - INCI Functions


Fragrance. It plays a very important role in the formulation of cosmetic products as it provides the possibility of enhancing, masking or adding fragrance to the final product, increasing its marketability. It is able to create a perceptible pleasant odour, masking a bad smell. The consumer always expects to find a pleasant or distinctive scent in a cosmetic product.
Synonyms:

CAS: 84082-61-1 EC number 282-007-0