What is a Botanical Extract?

What is a Botanical Extract?

A botanical extract is a compound derived from plant parts. These might include leaves, flowers, seeds, berries, roots, bark, twigs and other elements. They are often used in place of more traditional, pharmaceutical drug ingredients. They can be incorporated into topical products to deliver powerful results. A popular example of a botanical extract is chamomile, which helps to soothe the skin and calm emotions. Other examples of botanical extracts that can be found in skincare include green tea, black cohosh and echinacea.

Botanicals are often referred to as natural products and they may be less expensive than conventional medicines. They can also be easier to tolerate than some pharmaceutical drugs. Despite this, botanicals are not without risk and side effects do occur. These can be related to how the botanical is prepared, the type of botanical and dosage. It is important to always follow product instructions and speak with a doctor prior to using botanical preparations or supplements.

The FDA has established good manufacturing practices that manufacturers must follow to help ensure the identity, strength, purity and composition of a botanical dietary supplement. These requirements are intended to reduce the chance of contamination or improper handling and storage. The Office of Dietary Supplements also promotes research on botanical dietary supplements that have the potential to benefit human health.

Many plants and their ingredients have been used for centuries. Some have a strong clinical basis and are well studied, while others are still being researched (with mixed results). Some, such as black cohosh and St. John’s wort, are commonly used by women to treat menopausal symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats. Other botanicals, such as licorice and yarrow, are believed to aid in fighting oxidative stress and anxiety.

When formulated into skincare products, botanical extracts have the potential to improve skin tone and texture, fight signs of aging and support overall health. They can be used to brighten and even skin color, reduce redness and inflammation and soothe the skin. Extracts like chamomile and licorice are known for their ability to reduce the appearance of dark spots and blemishes. Pine bark extract, another powerhouse ingredient, can be used to decrease free radicals that can damage the skin.

The best botanicals for your skin depend on what you want to achieve. While they can be added to almost any formula, it’s best to stick with a few key ones. This will allow them to have their greatest effect without competing with other ingredients. For example, it is important not to put too many different botanical extracts in the same formula – this can lead to excessive redness or inflammation.