What is Cannabis Sativa Flower/Leaf Extract?
Cannabis Sativa Flower/Leaf Extract is derived from the flowers and leaves of the Cannabis sativa plant, more commonly known as hemp. It is also referred to as Hemp Flower/Leaf Extract. This extract is rich in cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids, which are chemical compounds that have various beneficial properties. It is important to note that this extract does not contain THC, the psychoactive compound found in marijuana, which is a different variety of the Cannabis sativa plant.
The use of Cannabis sativa in cosmetics is not new. In fact, hemp has been used for its medicinal properties for thousands of years. However, it is only in recent years that the cosmetic industry has started to recognize the potential benefits of this plant extract. The extraction process involves using a solvent, such as ethanol or CO2, to separate the beneficial compounds from the plant material. The resulting extract is then incorporated into various cosmetic products.
While there are other plant extracts used in cosmetics for their anti-sebum properties, such as tea tree oil and witch hazel, Cannabis Sativa Flower/Leaf Extract is unique due to its rich composition of cannabinoids. These compounds are known to interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which regulates various physiological processes, including sebum production.
Typically, Cannabis Sativa Flower/Leaf Extract is used in skincare products designed for oily and acne-prone skin, due to its anti-sebum function. It can be found in a variety of products, including moisturizers, serums, and face masks. By incorporating this extract into their formulations, cosmetic brands aim to help regulate sebum production, thereby reducing the likelihood of acne breakouts and promoting a balanced, healthy complexion.
Benefits and Uses
In this section, we will delve into the officially recognized benefits and uses of Cannabis Sativa Flower/Leaf Extract:
Anti-Sebum
The primary benefit of Cannabis Sativa Flower/Leaf Extract in cosmetics is its anti-sebum function. Sebum is a natural oil produced by our skin’s sebaceous glands. While it’s essential for keeping our skin hydrated and protected, excessive sebum production can lead to oily skin, clogged pores, and acne. The Cannabis Sativa Flower/Leaf Extract is known for its ability to regulate sebum production, thereby helping to maintain a balanced and healthy skin condition. This makes it a valuable ingredient in skincare products, particularly those designed for oily or acne-prone skin.
It’s important to note that the benefits listed above are based on the officially recognized and defined functions of Cannabis Sativa Flower/Leaf Extract. There may be other potential benefits and uses of this ingredient that go beyond the scope of its official functions. However, these are not officially recognized and therefore not discussed in this article. Always remember to use cosmetics responsibly and consult with a professional if you have any concerns or questions.
Safety Profile
Cannabis Sativa Flower/Leaf Extract is not a banned or regulated ingredient in cosmetics. However, it’s important to note that the legality of cannabis-based products varies from country to country, and in some places, it may be subject to restrictions.
As for its safety, Cannabis Sativa Flower/Leaf Extract is generally considered safe for topical use. It is not known to be a common allergen, but as with any ingredient, individual reactions can vary. It’s always a good idea to do a patch test before using a new product widely.
Potential side effects of topical application of Cannabis Sativa Flower/Leaf Extract include:
- Redness
- Itching
- Swelling
A note for women who are pregnant and/or breastfeeding – there is currently a lack of data on the safety of topical use of Cannabis Sativa Flower/Leaf Extract during pregnancy or breastfeeding. As such, it’s recommended to consult a healthcare professional for further advice.
Adverse reactions to Cannabis Sativa Flower/Leaf Extract are not common, but they can occur. As mentioned earlier, it’s recommended to do a patch test before using a product containing this ingredient widely.
This ingredient analysis has been commissioned by Truth In Skincare (TiS), an independent industry regulator, using a TiS-appointed industry consultant. The sources for this analysis include CosIng (Cosmetic Ingredient Database – by the European Commission), the Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), The US Food & Drug Administration (FDA), as well as other various publicly available sources.
