Botanical Extracts in Cosmetics and Pharmaceuticals: Historical Use, Regulatory Approaches, and Extraction Processes

    January 2002 in “ Journal of Toxicology-cutaneous and Ocular Toxicology ”
    Alain Khaiat
    Image of study
    TLDR Botanical extracts are increasingly important in cosmetics and drugs for their effectiveness and safety, backed by traditional use and scientific evidence.
    In 2002, Alain Khaiat's paper explored the use of botanical extracts in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals, detailing their historical use in traditional medicine and the resurgence of interest by modern companies. The paper outlined the differences in regulatory approaches between the U.S. FDA and the European Commission, and the extraction processes used to obtain botanical extracts, such as pressing, percolation, and maceration. It highlighted the importance of solvent selection to prevent toxicity and the use of biotechnology in extraction and transformation processes. The paper emphasized the wide range of activities of botanical extracts, including their antioxidant properties, skin barrier function maintenance, and use in slimming products. It also discussed specific extracts and their benefits, such as flavonoids for lipid degradation, ascorbic acid for collagen synthesis, and saponins for their potential in treating androgenic alopecia. The conclusion underscored the growing importance of botanical extracts in cosmetics and drugs due to their efficacy and safety, supported by traditional use and scientific research.
    Discuss this study in the Community →

    Related Community Posts Join

    6 / 23 results

      community The theory that explains everything. Please help me make this big!

      in Research/Science  2444 upvotes 4 years ago
      The post and conversation are about the role of the enzyme 3alpha-hydroxysteroid reductase in hair loss and the potential of compounds like procyanidin B2 and sulforaphane to boost its activity for hair regrowth. Further research is needed to develop effective treatments based on this theory.

      community This serum outperformed Minoxidil in a recent study. Please debunk

       23 upvotes 6 years ago
      A topical solution called "Multi-Peptide Serum for Hair Density" by The Ordinary Company, which contains several ingredients that are used in alternatives to Minoxidil and was found to have better results than 5% Minoxidil in a study. People who have tried it shared their experiences with the serum as well.

      community Redensyl for Hair Loss — What It Can and Can’t Do

      in Treatment 2 months ago
      Redensyl is a plant-based treatment that may support hair regrowth by reactivating dormant follicles and improving hair density, especially in early-stage thinning. It is not a miracle cure and results vary; it is less proven than Minoxidil or Finasteride and may cause scalp irritation.

      community Nice product I discovered, thought I would share.

      in Treatment  456 upvotes 10 months ago
      A product that makes hair look thicker and healthier without promoting regrowth. Discussions include treatments like minoxidil, finasteride, red light therapy, and a serum with caffeine and peptides, with mixed effectiveness opinions.

      community Is it worth using anti-hair loss shampoo?

      in Product  2 upvotes 1 week ago
      Anti-hair loss shampoos, like the one with rosemary, quillaja, and jaborandi extracts, mainly support scalp health but are not effective for hair regrowth compared to treatments like finasteride or minoxidil. Ketoconazole 2% is noted as the only effective anti-hair loss shampoo, while others are often considered scams.

    Similar Research

    5 / 946 results