Description

Echinacea purpurea extract is derived from the aerial parts (leaves, stems, flowers) and/or roots of the Echinacea purpurea plant, belonging to the Asteraceae family. This extract is highly valued for its immune-boosting, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties, making it a key ingredient in herbal medicine, as well as in various cosmetic and skincare products.

CHEMICAL COMPOSITION AND STRUCTURE

Chemically, Echinacea purpurea extract contains:

Phenolic Compounds: such as cichoric acid and caftaric acid, which provide potent antioxidant and immune-enhancing effects.
Polysaccharides: known for their immune-stimulating properties.
Alkamides: which contribute to the anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, as well as enhancing the absorption of other active compounds.

PHYSICAL PROPERTIES

Appearance: typically a brown to dark green liquid, depending on the concentration and method of extraction.
Odor: a mild, earthy, and herbal scent characteristic of echinacea.
Solubility: soluble in water and alcohol, making it suitable for incorporation into various liquid and semi-liquid formulations.
Density: varies depending on the concentration and extraction process.

PRODUCTION PROCESS

Cultivation: Echinacea purpurea is cultivated in well-drained soil with adequate sunlight to maximize the concentration of active compounds.
Harvesting: the plant is harvested when the concentration of active ingredients is highest, typically during the flowering stage.
Extraction: active compounds are extracted from the aerial parts and/or roots using methods such as solvent extraction, alcohol extraction, or cold pressing.
Filtration and Concentration: the extract is filtered to remove impurities and concentrated to the desired potency.
Packaging and Storage: the extract is packaged in airtight containers, often dark glass bottles, and stored in a cool, dry place to maintain its potency and stability.

APPLICATIONS

Herbal Medicine: widely used for its immune-boosting, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties.
Immune Support: included in tinctures, capsules, and teas to enhance immune function and help prevent or reduce the severity of colds and infections.
Skin Care: used in creams, lotions, and serums for its anti-inflammatory and healing properties, particularly for treating acne, eczema, and minor wounds.
Wellness: incorporated into supplements aimed at promoting overall health and resilience.

ENVIRONMENTAL AND SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS

Sustainability: Echinacea purpurea extract can be produced sustainably, especially when sourced from organic and responsibly managed farms.
Toxicity: the extract is generally considered safe for use in cosmetic and medicinal products when used appropriately, though it may cause allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to plants in the Asteraceae family.
Allergenicity: as with all plant-based ingredients, individual reactions of intolerance or allergy cannot be excluded, particularly in those with known sensitivities to related plants.

INCI


Moisturizing. This ingredient is responsible for preventing the evaporation of moisture from the skin and improving cellular activity. When exposed to cold or hot air currents, the skin absorbs water from its inner layer to compensate for the evaporated water. If the draught phenomenon persists, the stratum corneum is dry and, if at all, damaged.

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.

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: 90028-20-9 EC number 289-808-4