Description

Spiraea ulmaria extract is derived from the meadowsweet or dropwort plant, Spiraea ulmaria, which belongs to the Rosaceae family. This extract is valued for its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and astringent properties, making it a popular ingredient in skincare, hair care, and herbal medicinal products.

CHEMICAL COMPOSITION AND STRUCTURE

Chemically, Spiraea ulmaria extract contains:

Salicylic Acid: a natural precursor to acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin), offering powerful anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects.
Flavonoids: including quercetin and kaempferol, which provide antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits.
Tannins: with astringent properties, helping to tone the skin and reduce excess oil.
Essential Oils: contributing to the extract's characteristic aroma and providing additional calming and anti-inflammatory effects.

PHYSICAL PROPERTIES

Appearance: typically a brown to dark brown liquid, depending on the concentration and method of extraction.
Odor: sweet and herbal, with almond-like notes due to the presence of phenolic compounds.
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: Spiraea ulmaria is grown in moist, nutrient-rich environments, such as along streams and in wet meadows.
Harvesting: the plant is harvested during its flowering stage, when the concentration of active ingredients is at its peak.
Drying and Processing: the harvested parts, including flowers and leaves, are dried and then processed into extract form.
Extraction: the active compounds are extracted using methods such as solvent extraction, alcohol extraction, or water-based infusion.
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 and stored in a cool, dry place to maintain its potency and stability.

APPLICATIONS

Skincare: used in products for its anti-inflammatory, soothing, and astringent properties.
Anti-Acne: included in toners, creams, and masks to help reduce inflammation and prevent breakouts.
Sensitive Skin: utilized in formulations aimed at calming irritated or sensitive skin.
Hair Care: incorporated into shampoos, conditioners, and scalp treatments to tone the scalp and promote hair health.
Herbal Medicine: used in teas, tinctures, and supplements for its natural pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory effects, particularly for joint pain and rheumatism.

ENVIRONMENTAL AND SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS

Sustainability: Spiraea ulmaria 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 reactions in individuals sensitive to salicylates.
Allergenicity: as with all plant-based ingredients, individual reactions of intolerance or allergy cannot be excluded, especially in those with known sensitivities to salicylates.

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. 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: 84775-57-5 EC number 283-886-3