Symphytum Officinale Leaf Extract has gained popularity in cosmetics due to its healing, antioxidant, and soothing properties. For ages, its plant was used for its medicinal value - specifically for wound healing. It is loaded with allantoin, rosmarinic acid, and phenolic acid that give the extract its beneficial qualities. Also known as comfrey extract, this ingredient also moisturizes the skin and prevents dehydration. However, Symphytum Officinale Leaf Extract is highly controversial in the personal care industry due to the presence of pyrrolizidine alkaloids that are associated with potential health risks upon topical application - specifically when used in higher concentrations.
Products with SYMPHYTUM OFFICINALE LEAF EXTRACT
NV Redensifier
by Nanovetores Tecnologia
- Sustainable option
COMFREY Liquid B
by Ichimaru Pharcos
- Sustainable option
What is SYMPHYTUM OFFICINALE LEAF EXTRACT used for?
Symphytum Officinale Leaf Extract offers many health benefits for the skin. Primarily, it is a healing agent and promotes cell regeneration for healthy skin. It has been used historically in herbal medicine for its tissue-healing properties. Rich in allantoin, it soothes skin and acts as an anti-inflammatory ingredient - calming irritation, redness, and sensitive skin. Its antioxidant properties protect the skin from free radical damage responsible for early aging of the skin. In hair care, comfrey extract is used for its moisturizing and scalp-healing properties. Symphytum Officinale Leaf Extract is added to anti-aging serums, healing balms, sensitive skin lotions, and scalp treatments.
Origin
Symphytum Officinale Leaf Extract comes from the comfrey plant which is native to Europe and all the temperate regions of the world. Its leaves are first collected and dried. They then undergo water, glycerin, or ethanol-based extraction to isolate the beneficial compounds. The resulting extract is further filtered and standardized for use in cosmetics.
What does SYMPHYTUM OFFICINALE LEAF EXTRACT do in a formulation?
Safety Profile
Symphytum Officinale Leaf Extract is a controversial ingredient in cosmetics due to the presence of pyrrolizidine alkaloids. When taken internally, it is known to damage the liver, and topical application at high concentrations is not considered safe either. It is best to stick to the recommended usage levels or use PA-free extracts. Patch testing is necessary prior to full application.
SYMPHYTUM OFFICINALE LEAF EXTRACT alternatives
SYMPHYTUM OFFICINALE LEAF EXTRACT technical profile
| Property | Values |
Boiling Point | 103°C |
Solubility | Soluble in water; insoluble in oil |
| Viscosity | Low to medium |
