Echinacea Purpurea Extract

Good

Antioxidant

Echinacea Purpurea Extract at a glance

  • Plant extract from Echinacea purpurea AKA purple coneflower
  • Contains bioactive phytochemicals that have soothing benefits
  • Mitigates pro-aging environmental factors
  • Recommended for usage in cosmetics at 0.1%

Echinacea Purpurea Extract description

_Echinacea purpurea_ extract, also known as purple coneflower, is a plant extract included in skin care products for its antioxidant properties and its anti-aging and soothing benefits. The plant contains alkylamides, glycoproteins and polysaccharides, all of which contribute to this extract’s soothing benefits, making it a valuable ingredient suitable even for those with skin prone to rosacea and eczema. In one study, echinacea proved effective at curbing itchiness on the skin and scalp. Phenolic compounds present in _Echinacea purpurea_, including chicoric acid, help protect the skin from aggressive environmental agents that, when left unchecked, can cause fine lines, wrinkles and uneven tone. Ingredient suppliers recommend using this plant extract in cosmetic formulas at 0.1%. Despite fairly widespread use, including in supplements and over-the-counter cold remedies, the safety of echinacea has yet to be firmly established.

Echinacea Purpurea Extract references

  • Plants, May 2022, ePublication
  • Food Chemistry and Toxicology, March 2020, pages 1–42
  • Clinical, cosmetic and investigational dermatology, November 2018, pages 591-602
  • Pharmacognosy Reviews, Jan-June 2015, pages 63-72

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.