Description

Sambucus nigra water is a hydrosol obtained from the steam distillation of the flowers or leaves of the Sambucus nigra plant, commonly known as elderberry. This water is valued in cosmetics and personal care products for its gentle, hydrating, and soothing properties. It is often used as a base ingredient or a toner in various skincare formulations.

Chemical Composition and Structure

Sambucus nigra water contains several components, although in lower concentrations compared to essential oils:

Flavonoids: Such as quercetin and rutin, which provide antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits.
Polyphenols: Contributing to its protective and soothing properties.
Essential Oils: Present in trace amounts, imparting a subtle fragrance and potential antimicrobial effects.
Vitamins and Minerals: Including small amounts of vitamins C and A, as well as various minerals that contribute to skin health.

Physical Properties

Sambucus nigra water exhibits the following physical properties:

Color: Generally clear to pale yellow.
Odor: Mild, delicate floral scent characteristic of elderflowers or leaves.
Texture: Light, watery consistency, making it easy to incorporate into various formulations.
Solubility: Fully soluble in water, ideal for use in aqueous-based products.

Production Process

The production of Sambucus nigra water involves the following steps:

Harvesting: Elderflowers or leaves are collected at their peak freshness to maximize the quality of the hydrosol.
Distillation: The plant material is subjected to steam distillation, where steam is passed through the plant material to extract essential oils and hydrosol.
Condensation: The steam is condensed back into a liquid, separating the essential oil from the water phase.
Filtration: The water is filtered to remove any particulate matter and ensure clarity.
Packaging: The hydrosol is packaged in light-resistant containers to preserve its freshness and beneficial properties.

Applications

Sambucus nigra water is used in a variety of cosmetic and personal care products, including:

Toners: Applied to the skin to balance pH and provide hydration.
Facial Mists: Used to refresh and hydrate the skin throughout the day.
Skincare Products: Incorporated into creams, serums, and masks for its soothing and hydrating effects.
Hair Care Products: Used in conditioners and shampoos to add moisture and enhance scalp health.

Safety

Sambucus nigra water is generally regarded as safe for use in cosmetics and personal care products when used as directed. It is essential to ensure proper formulation and storage to maintain its efficacy. Individuals with known allergies to elderberry or related plants should exercise caution.

Environmental and Safety Considerations

The production of Sambucus nigra water should be conducted with environmental sustainability in mind. This includes using eco-friendly practices during harvesting, minimizing the use of chemicals, and managing waste effectively. Quality control measures are crucial to ensure the hydrosol is free from contaminants and retains its beneficial properties.

INCI


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: 84603-58-7 EC number 283-259-4