Description

Equisetum Arvense Extract is an extract obtained from the Equisetum arvense plant, commonly known as horsetail, belonging to the Equisetaceae family. This extract is valued for its beneficial properties, making it popular in various applications, particularly in the fields of cosmetics, personal care, and herbal medicine.

Chemical Composition and Structure

The chemical composition of Equisetum Arvense Extract includes a variety of bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, phenolic acids, saponins, silica, potassium, magnesium, and various vitamins. These compounds vary in structure: flavonoids and phenolic acids have complex phenolic structures, saponins are glycosides with foaming characteristics, and silica is a mineral known for its strengthening properties.

Physical Properties

Equisetum Arvense Extract typically appears as a clear to light green liquid, with a mild, grassy scent. It has a watery texture and is easily absorbed by the skin. The extract is completely soluble in other aqueous solutions.

Production Process

The production of Equisetum Arvense Extract involves several steps:

Harvesting and Selection: the Equisetum arvense plant is harvested and selected for quality
Cleaning: the harvested plant material is thoroughly cleaned to remove dirt and contaminants
Extraction: the cleaned plant material is subjected to an extraction process, typically using water or a water-based solvent, to obtain the extract
Filtration: the extracted liquid is filtered to remove any remaining 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: Equisetum Arvense Extract is known for its anti-inflammatory, diuretic, and astringent properties. It is used in traditional medicine to treat various conditions such as urinary tract infections, kidney stones, and to promote overall health

Cosmetics: in the cosmetics industry, Equisetum Arvense Extract is valued for its soothing, toning, and strengthening properties. It is commonly included in formulations of facial toners, lotions, shampoos, and hair conditioners

Herbal Medicine: Equisetum Arvense Extract is used in herbal medicine for its potential health benefits, including supporting skin health, reducing inflammation, and promoting hair growth

Personal Care: beyond medical and cosmetic applications, Equisetum Arvense Extract can also be used in personal care products such as mouthwashes and skin sprays for its cleansing and refreshing properties

Environmental and Safety Considerations

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

Safety: Equisetum Arvense Extract is considered safe for topical 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 cannot be excluded

INCI


Cosmetic astringent. This ingredient exerts a direct effect on the skin by tightening dilated pores by contracting stratum corneum cells and removing superfluous oil.

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.

Soothing. Ingredient with the task of restoring moisture to the skin, helping in the healing process of irritation, inflammation and skin disorders.

Surfactant - Foam booster. It has the effect of introducing gas bubbles into the water and affects the cleaning process by helping to spread the cleanser. Since sebum has an inhibiting effect on the bubble, more foam is produced in the second shampoo.
Synonyms:

CAS: 71011-23-9 EC number 275-123-8