Pinus Palustris Leaf Extract is an extract obtained from the leaves of the Pinus palustris tree, a member of the Pinaceae family. This extract is valued for its medicinal and beneficial properties, making it popular in various applications, particularly in the fields of cosmetics and medicine.
Chemical Composition and Structure
The chemical composition of Pinus Palustris Leaf Extract includes a variety of bioactive compounds such as terpenes, flavonoids, phenolic acids, tannins, and vitamins. These compounds vary in structure: terpenes possess a wide range of carbon skeletons, flavonoids have phenolic structures, phenolic acids contain aromatic rings with hydroxyl groups, and tannins are complex polyphenols.
Physical Properties
Pinus Palustris Leaf Extract typically appears as a light yellow to brown liquid, with a characteristic pine scent. It has a slightly bitter and astringent taste due to the presence of tannins. The pH of this extract can range from slightly acidic to neutral, usually between 4.0 and 6.0. It is soluble in water and can be easily mixed with other aqueous solutions.
Production Process
The production of Pinus Palustris Leaf Extract involves several steps:
Harvesting and Selection: the mature leaves of the Pinus palustris tree are harvested and selected for quality
Washing: the harvested leaves are thoroughly washed to remove dirt and contaminants
Drying: the washed leaves are dried to reduce moisture content
Crushing and Maceration: the dried leaves are crushed and macerated to release the active compounds
Extraction: the macerated leaf material is subjected to an extraction process, typically using water or a water-based solvent, to obtain the extract
Filtration and Purification: the extract is filtered to remove solid residues and impurities
Concentration (optional): in some processes, the extract may be concentrated to enhance the potency of the active ingredients
Sterilization: the final product is sterilized to ensure microbiological safety
Applications
Medicine: Pinus Palustris Leaf Extract is known for its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties. It is used in traditional medicine to treat conditions such as respiratory infections, inflammations, and wounds
Cosmetics: in the cosmetics industry, Pinus Palustris Leaf Extract is valued for its soothing, anti-inflammatory, and astringent properties. It is commonly included in formulations of creams, lotions, toners, and facial masks
Others: beyond medical and cosmetic applications, Pinus Palustris Leaf Extract can also be used in personal care products such as shampoos and conditioners for its antimicrobial and soothing properties
Environmental and Safety Considerations
Environmental Impact: the production of Pinus Palustris Leaf Extract generally has a low environmental impact, especially when sustainable agricultural practices are employed. The use of natural solvents in the extraction process also minimizes the release of harmful chemicals into the environment
Safety: Pinus Palustris Leaf Extract is considered safe for topical use in the concentrations typically employed in consumer products. However, it is essential to ensure that the extract is free from contaminants and pathogens. Allergic reactions are rare but cannot be excluded.
Cosmetic Safety
Restricted cosmetic ingredient as III/112 a Relevant Item in the Annexes of the European Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009. Substance or ingredient reported: Pinus palustris oil and extract. Peroxide value less than 10 mmoles/L. This limit applies to the substance and not to the finished cosmetic product.
INCI
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: 97435-14-8 EC number 306-895-7