Description

Nelumbo Nucifera Leaf/Pod/Sprout Extract is derived from various parts of the Nelumbo nucifera plant—its leaves, pods, and sprouts. This multi-part extract is valued for its comprehensive skin benefits, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and hydrating properties, making it a versatile ingredient in skincare and cosmetic products.

Chemical Composition and Structure

Nelumbo Nucifera Leaf/Pod/Sprout Extract contains:

Flavonoids: Provide antioxidant benefits, protecting the skin from oxidative stress and free radical damage.
Phenolic Compounds: Offer anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
Amino Acids: Essential for maintaining skin hydration and promoting repair.
Vitamins: Rich in Vitamin C and Vitamin E, which offer antioxidant protection and support overall skin health.
Minerals: Include essential minerals such as magnesium and potassium, which contribute to skin vitality and hydration.
Polysaccharides: Contribute to skin hydration and create a protective barrier.
The chemical structure of the extract includes flavonoids, phenolic compounds, amino acids, vitamins, minerals, and polysaccharides, which work together to provide a range of skin benefits.

Physical Properties

Appearance: Clear to pale green or yellow solution, depending on the concentration and formulation.
Odor: Mild, fresh, or slightly earthy fragrance characteristic of lotus plant parts.
Solubility: Soluble in water and compatible with various cosmetic formulations.
Melting Point: Not applicable; the extract remains stable at room temperature.
Boiling Point: Varies based on concentration and specific compounds.

Production Process

Harvesting: Leaves, pods, and sprouts of Nelumbo nucifera are collected.
Extraction: Bioactive compounds are extracted from these plant parts using water or suitable solvents.
Filtration: The extract is filtered to remove any particulate matter and obtain a clear solution.
Standardization: The extract is standardized to ensure consistent quality and efficacy in the final product.
Packaging: The extract is packaged in airtight containers to protect it from light and moisture.

Applications

Cosmetic: Used in skincare products such as serums, creams, and masks for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and hydrating effects. Helps to protect the skin from environmental damage, reduce inflammation, and improve overall skin hydration and texture.
Pharmaceutical: May be included in certain pharmaceutical preparations for its anti-inflammatory and skin-rejuvenating properties.
Food: Rarely used in food applications, but may be included in dietary supplements for its potential health benefits.

Environmental and Safety Considerations

Biodegradability: The extract is generally biodegradable and considered environmentally friendly when managed properly.
Toxicity: Generally regarded as safe for topical use. However, like all extracts, it should be used according to established guidelines to avoid potential allergic reactions or skin irritations. Individuals with allergies or very sensitive skin should exercise caution. It is important to ensure the extract is sustainably sourced and free from harmful chemicals.
Disposal: Should be disposed of in accordance with local environmental regulations. Proper disposal methods should be followed to prevent environmental contamination.

INCI Functions:


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.

Skin conditioning agent - Humectant. Humectants are hygroscopic substances used to minimise water loss in the skin and to prevent it from drying out by facilitating faster and greater absorption of water into the stratum corneum of the epidermis. The epidermis is the most superficial of the three layers that make up the human skin (epidermis, dermis and hypodermis) and is the layer that maintains hydration in all three layers. In turn, the epidermis is composed of five layers: corneum, the most superficial, lucidum, granulosum, spinosum and basale. Humectants have the ability to retain in the stratum corneum the water they attract from the air and have the function of moisturising the skin. It is better to use them before emollients that are oil-based.
Synonyms:

CAS: 85085-51-4 EC number 285-379-2