Origanum Vulgare Flower Extract is derived from the flowers of the oregano plant and is valued for its rich content of antioxidants and essential oils. It is commonly used in cosmetic formulations for its soothing, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties, making it beneficial for skin health.

Chemical Composition and Structure

The chemical composition of Origanum Vulgare Flower Extract includes:

• Essential Oils: Such as carvacrol and thymol, which contribute to its antimicrobial and antifungal effects.
• Phenolic Compounds: Including rosmarinic acid and flavonoids, which provide antioxidant benefits.
• Terpenes: Compounds that enhance the extract's aroma and provide additional skin benefits.
• Vitamins: Such as Vitamin C, supporting skin health and protecting against oxidative stress.

Structurally, Origanum Vulgare Flower Extract contains various bioactive compounds that work synergistically to provide beneficial effects on the skin.

Physical Properties

• Appearance: Typically a dark green to brown liquid or concentrated extract.
• Solubility: Soluble in oil and alcohol; limited solubility in water.
• pH: Generally acidic, varying based on extraction methods.
• Odor: Characteristic strong, floral aroma.
• Stability: Sensitive to light and air; should be stored in a cool, dark place to maintain potency.

Production Process

• Extraction: The extract is obtained through steam distillation or solvent extraction of the flowers of the Origanum vulgare plant.
• Purification: The crude extract may be further purified to concentrate the bioactive compounds and remove impurities.
• Formulation: The purified extract is incorporated into cosmetic and personal care products, often combined with other ingredients to enhance performance and stability.

Applications

• Medical: Used in some medicinal formulations for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Cosmetics: Commonly included in skincare products, shampoos, and conditioners for its soothing and beneficial effects on skin and hair health.

INCI Functions:

Anti-sebum.  Controls and reduces emissions from the sebaceous glands, which are responsible for greasy, enlarged pores in the skin, where it occurs, particularly on the forehead, cheeks, nose and hair. Adjuvant in the treatment of acne.

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. 

Oral care agent. This ingredient can be placed in the oral cavity to improve and/or maintain oral hygiene and health, to prevent or improve a disorder of the teeth, gums, mucous membrane. It provides cosmetic effects to the oral cavity as a protector, cleanser, deodorant.

Refreshing. This ingredient is included in cosmetic products to provide a refreshing or toning sensation to the skin and can also help relieve irritation or redness.

CAS  84012-24-8

EC number      281-670-3

• Food: Sometimes used as a flavoring agent due to its aromatic qualities.
• Industrial Uses: Limited applications, primarily in natural product formulations.

Environmental and Safety Considerations

Origanum Vulgare Flower Extract is generally regarded as safe for topical application in cosmetics when used according to recommended guidelines. However, individuals with allergies to plants in the Lamiaceae family should exercise caution. Responsible sourcing and extraction practices are essential to ensure that the extract is free from harmful contaminants and produced sustainably.