The volatile oil of the whole Centella asiatica plant, listed among others as an antioxidant and skin-conditioning ingredient.
What it is
Centella asiatica oil is, according to CosIng, the volatile oil obtained from the whole plant of Centella asiatica, a creeping herb of the carrot family (Apiaceae) also known as gotu kola. CosIng lists it as an antimicrobial, antioxidant, humectant, skin-conditioning and skin-protecting ingredient.
Where it is used
Appears on the ingredient lists of a small number of skin care products.
Limits of interpretation
The INCI list shows which ingredients are present, not how much of each. Above 1%, ingredients are listed in descending order of weight; below 1% the order is free.
As a natural essential oil, its composition can vary between batches.
Functions
- Antimicrobial
- Preventing and/or slowing down microbial growth.
- Antioxidant
- Inhibiting reactions promoted by oxygen, thus avoiding oxidation and rancidity.
- Humectant
- Retaining and/or preserving the moisture in a product during use.
- Skin conditioning
- Maintaining the skin in good condition.
- Skin protecting
- Helping to avoid harmful effects to the skin from external factors.
EU regulation
This ingredient is not listed in the annexes of Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 in the CosIng data.