Description

Sambucus nigra flower water, also known as elderflower water, is a hydrosol obtained from the steam distillation of the flowers of the Sambucus nigra plant, commonly known as elderberry. This water is used in cosmetic and skincare products for its soothing, anti-inflammatory, and hydrating properties. It retains many of the beneficial components of the elderflower, albeit in a diluted form.

Chemical Composition and Structure

Sambucus nigra flower water contains a range of bioactive compounds, although in lower concentrations compared to essential oils. Key components include:

Flavonoids: Such as quercetin and rutin, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
Phenolic Acids: Including chlorogenic acid and caffeic acid, providing additional antioxidant benefits.
Essential Oils: Present in trace amounts, contributing to its characteristic scent and some of its therapeutic properties.
Vitamins: Particularly vitamin C, which aids in skin brightening and collagen synthesis.
Polysaccharides: For hydration and soothing effects.

Physical Properties

The physical properties of Sambucus nigra flower water are as follows:

Color: Typically clear or slightly cloudy, with a pale, light hue.
Odor: Mild, floral, and herbal, reflecting the scent of elderflowers.
Texture: Liquid, with a light, watery consistency.
Solubility: Completely soluble in water-based formulations, making it versatile for various cosmetic applications.

Production Process

The production of Sambucus nigra flower water involves the following steps:

Harvesting: Elderflowers are harvested at their peak bloom.
Steam Distillation: The flowers are subjected to steam distillation, where steam passes through the plant material, carrying the essential oil and water-soluble components.
Condensation: The steam is condensed back into a liquid, separating the essential oil from the hydrosol.
Filtration: The resulting flower water is filtered to remove any particulate matter.
Packaging: The clear, aromatic liquid is packaged in airtight containers to maintain its freshness and efficacy.

Applications

Sambucus nigra flower water is used in a variety of cosmetic and skincare products:

Facial Toners: To soothe, hydrate, and refresh the skin.
Cleansers: As a gentle, calming ingredient in facial cleansers.
Face Masks: Incorporated in masks for its hydrating and anti-inflammatory properties.
Body Sprays: Used in body sprays for a refreshing, floral fragrance.
Hair Care: Included in hair care products for its soothing effects on the scalp and hair.

Safety

Sambucus nigra flower water is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics and personal care products when used as directed. It is important to ensure that the product is formulated and preserved properly to avoid contamination. Individuals with known allergies to elderflowers or related plants should use caution.

Environmental and Safety Considerations

The production of Sambucus nigra flower water should take into account:

Sustainable Harvesting: Ensuring that elderflowers are harvested in an environmentally friendly manner.
Waste Management: Implementing practices to minimize waste during the production process.
Quality Control: Maintaining rigorous quality control to ensure the purity and efficacy of the flower water.

INCI


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