Ruta Graveolens Leaf/Stem Extract, derived from the leaves and stems of the Ruta graveolens plant, commonly known as rue, is a valuable ingredient in the cosmetic and personal care industry. This extract is rich in bioactive compounds, providing numerous therapeutic and skin-care benefits.
Chemical Composition and Structure
Ruta Graveolens Leaf/Stem Extract contains a variety of bioactive compounds that contribute to its beneficial effects on the skin. The specific composition includes:
Alkaloids: Known for their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Flavonoids (such as rutin and quercetin): Provide antioxidant benefits, protecting the skin from free radical damage.
Essential Oils (including cineole and limonene): Offer aromatic and therapeutic properties.
Coumarins: Contribute to the extract’s overall skin-soothing and protective effects.
Physical Properties
Ruta Graveolens Leaf/Stem Extract typically appears as a greenish to brownish liquid with a characteristic strong, herbal aroma. It is water-soluble, making it ideal for use in various water-based formulations such as toners, serums, and creams.
Cosmetic and Personal Care Applications
Anti-Inflammatory: The extract has significant anti-inflammatory properties, making it useful for soothing and calming irritated skin.
Antimicrobial: The antimicrobial properties help to protect the skin from bacterial and fungal infections.
Antioxidant Protection: The flavonoids and other phenolic compounds in the extract provide antioxidant benefits, helping to protect the skin from free radical damage and environmental stressors.
Skin Conditioning: Ruta Graveolens Leaf/Stem Extract conditions the skin, enhancing its texture and overall appearance.
Aromatic Benefits: The essential oils in the extract provide a pleasant aroma, contributing to the sensory experience of skincare products.
Soothing: The coumarins and alkaloids help to soothe and calm the skin, making it suitable for sensitive or reactive skin types.
Environmental and Safety Considerations
Ruta Graveolens Leaf/Stem Extract is generally considered safe for use in cosmetic and personal care products. However, it can be phototoxic in high concentrations, so it should be used with caution, particularly in products that will be applied before sun exposure. As a naturally derived ingredient, it poses minimal risk to the environment when sourced and disposed of responsibly. Utilizing Ruta Graveolens Leaf/Stem Extract supports sustainable practices by promoting the use of plant-based ingredients.
Cosmetic Safety
Restricted cosmetic ingredient as III/358 a Relevant Item in the Annexes of the European Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009. Substance or ingredient reported: May be used in cosmetic products, provided that the total concentration of furocoumarin-like substances in the finished cosmetic product do not exceed 1ppm.(An initial list of perfumery materials which must not form part of cosmetic products except subject to the restrictions and conditions laid down -adopted by the SCCNFP during the 18th Plenary meeting of 25 September 2001) Furocoumarines (e.g. trioxysalen (INN), 8-methoxypsoralen, 5-methoxypsoralen) except for normal content in natural essences used. In sun protection and in bronzing products, furocoumarines shall be below 1 mg/kg.
Cosmetics - INCI Functions
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.
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