Arctium Lappa

Best

Antioxidant

Arctium Lappa at a glance

  • Also known as burdock
  • Contributes to skin’s environmental defense
  • Works to soothe and lightly hydrate skin
  • Its roots, leaves, seeds and flowers can be used to create ingredients

Arctium Lappa description

_Arctium lappa_, AKA burdock, is a plant species that produces many cosmetic ingredients used for their antioxidant and soothing properties. _Arctium lappa_ is a biennial plant native to parts of Europe and Asia but is now also found as an invasive species in regions throughout the world, including Australia and North America. Its flowers, roots, leaves and seeds are used to create cosmetic ingredients. The plant contains many skin-beneficial compounds, including flavonoids (antioxidants like chlorogenic and caffeic acids), fatty acids, polysaccharides and oligosaccharides. The flavonoids present in this plant help defend skin from external threats, including pollution and environmental agents, whereas the fatty acids, polysaccharides and oligosaccharides help soothe and hydrate thanks to their water-binding properties. The concentrations of _Arctium lappa_ used in cosmetics varies based on the type of ingredient included in the formula. Amounts of 0.1–1% are standard and this plant is often included in a blend with water and one or more glycols since these help solubilize burdock. Outside of skin care, _Arctium lappa_ is also used in hair care formulas, particularly those targeting scalp care.

Arctium Lappa references

  • Chemistry & Biodiversity, November 2022, pages 1–18
  • Biointerface Research in Applied Chemistry, June 2022, pages 2,826-2,842
  • Inflammopharmacology, October 2010, pages 245-254

Peer-reviewed, substantiated scientific research is used to assess ingredients in this dictionary. Regulations regarding constraints, permitted concentration levels and availability vary by country and region.

Ingredient ratings

Best

Proven and supported by independent studies. Outstanding active ingredient for most skin types or concerns.

Good

Necessary to improve a formula's texture, stability, or penetration.

Average

Generally non-irritating but may have aesthetic, stability, or other issues that limit its usefulness.

Bad

There is a likelihood of irritation. Risk increases when combined with other problematic ingredients.

Worst

May cause irritation, inflammation, dryness, etc. May offer benefit in some capability but overall, proven to do more harm than good.

unknown

We couldn't find this in our ingredient dictionary. We log all missing ingredients and make continuous updates.

Not rated

We have not yet rated this ingredient because we have not had a chance to review the research on it.