Sophora Japonica Extract is an extract obtained from the Sophora japonica plant, a member of the Leguminosae family. This extract is valued for its medicinal and beneficial properties, making it popular in various applications, particularly in the fields of cosmetics and medicine.

Chemical Composition and Structure

The chemical composition of Sophora Japonica Extract includes a variety of bioactive compounds such as flavonoids (especially rutin), alkaloids, saponins, polysaccharides, and other phenolic compounds. The structure of these compounds varies: flavonoids possess phenolic structures, alkaloids have complex nitrogen-containing structures, and saponins are glycoside compounds.

Physical Properties

Sophora Japonica Extract typically appears as a light yellow to brown liquid, with a characteristic odor. It has a bitter taste due to the presence of alkaloids. The pH of this extract can range from slightly acidic to neutral, usually between 4.5 and 7.0. It is soluble in water and can be easily mixed with other aqueous solutions.

Production Process

The production of Sophora Japonica Extract involves several steps:

Harvesting and Selection: the mature parts of the Sophora japonica plant are harvested and selected for quality
Washing: the harvested parts are thoroughly washed to remove dirt and contaminants
Drying: the washed parts are dried to reduce moisture content
Crushing and Maceration: the dried parts are crushed and macerated to release the active compounds
Extraction: the macerated plant material is subjected to an extraction process, typically using water or a water-based solvent, to obtain the extract
Filtration and Purification: the extract is filtered to remove solid residues and impurities
Concentration (optional): in some processes, the extract may be concentrated to enhance the potency of the active ingredients
Sterilization: the final product is sterilized to ensure microbiological safety
Applications

Medicine: Sophora Japonica Extract is known for its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties. It is used in traditional medicine to treat conditions such as bacterial and fungal infections, gastrointestinal issues, and skin inflammations

Cosmetics: in the cosmetics industry, Sophora Japonica Extract is valued for its soothing, anti-inflammatory, and anti-aging properties. It is commonly included in formulations of facial creams, serums, lotions, and acne treatment products

Others: beyond medical and cosmetic applications, Sophora Japonica Extract can also be used in personal care products such as shampoos and scalp treatments for its antimicrobial and soothing properties

Environmental and Safety Considerations

Environmental Impact: the production of Sophora Japonica Extract generally has a low environmental impact, especially when sustainable farming practices are employed. The use of natural solvents like water in the extraction process also minimizes the release of harmful chemicals into the environment

Safety: Sophora Japonica Extract is considered safe for topical and oral use in the concentrations typically employed in consumer products. However, it is essential to ensure that the extract is free from contaminants and pathogens. Allergic reactions are rare but can occur

INCI


Skin conditioning agent - Emollient. Emollients have the characteristic of enhancing the skin barrier through a source of exogenous lipids that adhere to the skin, improving barrier properties by filling gaps in intercorneocyte clusters to improve hydration while protecting against inflammation. In practice, they have the ability to create a barrier that prevents transepidermal water loss. Emollients are described as degreasing or refreshing additives that improve the lipid content of the upper layers of the skin by preventing degreasing and drying of the skin. The problem with emollients is that many have a strong lipophilic character and are identified as occlusive ingredients; they are oily and fatty materials that remain on the skin surface and reduce transepidermal water loss. In cosmetics, emollients and moisturisers are often considered synonymous with humectants and occlusives.

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.
Synonyms:

CAS: 90131-19-4 EC number 290-329-8