What is Hibiscus Cannabinus Stem Water?
Hibiscus Cannabinus Stem Water, also known as Kenaf Stem Water, is an aqueous solution derived from the steam distillates of the stems of the Hibiscus cannabinus plant, a member of the Malvaceae family. This plant is native to tropical and subtropical regions around the world, and its stem water is rich in antioxidants and other beneficial compounds that contribute to its skin conditioning and protecting properties.
The use of Hibiscus Cannabinus Stem Water in cosmetics is a relatively recent development, but the plant itself has a long history of use in traditional medicine. The stems of the Hibiscus cannabinus plant were traditionally used for their soothing and healing properties, and these benefits have been harnessed in the form of stem water for use in modern cosmetic products.
The process of creating Hibiscus Cannabinus Stem Water involves steam distillation, a method commonly used to extract essential oils and other beneficial compounds from plants. The stems of the Hibiscus cannabinus plant are subjected to steam, and the resulting condensate is collected and used as an ingredient in cosmetic products.
While there are other plant-based waters used in cosmetics, such as rose water or lavender water, Hibiscus Cannabinus Stem Water stands out for its unique properties. Unlike many other plant waters, it is derived from the stem of the plant rather than the flowers or leaves. This gives it a unique composition, rich in antioxidants and other beneficial compounds that can help to condition and protect the skin.
Hibiscus Cannabinus Stem Water is typically used in a variety of cosmetic products, including moisturizers and serums. Its skin conditioning and protecting properties make it a valuable addition to these products, helping to improve skin texture and protect against environmental stressors.
Benefits and Uses
In this section, we will delve into the officially recognized benefits and uses of Hibiscus Cannabinus Stem Water:
Antioxidant
As an antioxidant, Hibiscus Cannabinus Stem Water plays a crucial role in protecting the skin from harmful free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can cause damage to the skin cells, leading to premature aging and other skin issues. The antioxidant properties of this ingredient help to neutralize these free radicals, thereby preventing them from causing harm. This means that products containing Hibiscus Cannabinus Stem Water can help to maintain the skin’s youthful appearance and overall health.
Skin Conditioning
Hibiscus Cannabinus Stem Water also serves as a skin conditioner. In the realm of cosmetics, a skin conditioner is an ingredient that enhances the appearance and feel of the skin. It works by increasing the skin’s hydration, reducing dryness, and improving its texture. Therefore, cosmetics that include Hibiscus Cannabinus Stem Water can help to keep your skin feeling soft, smooth, and well-hydrated.
Skin Protecting
Another official function of Hibiscus Cannabinus Stem Water is its skin-protecting ability. This means that it helps to form a barrier on the skin’s surface, which protects it from environmental stressors such as pollution, harsh weather conditions, and harmful UV rays. By doing so, it helps to maintain the skin’s overall health and integrity.
It’s important to note that these benefits are based on the officially recognized and defined functions of Hibiscus Cannabinus Stem Water. There may be other benefits and uses of this ingredient that go beyond these official functions. However, these additional benefits are not officially recognized and therefore, are not discussed in this article.
Safety Profile
Hibiscus Cannabinus Stem Water is not a banned or regulated ingredient in cosmetics. It is generally considered safe for use in skincare and beauty products. However, as with any ingredient, individual reactions can vary and it is always recommended to do a patch test before widespread usage.
While it is generally well-tolerated, potential side effects of topical application of this ingredient can include:
- Minor skin irritation
- Allergic reactions in individuals with sensitivity to hibiscus or other members of the Malvaceae family
A note for women who are pregnant and/or breastfeeding – there is currently insufficient data on the safety of Hibiscus Cannabinus Stem Water during pregnancy or breastfeeding. As such, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional for further advice.
Adverse reactions to Hibiscus Cannabinus Stem Water are not common, but as with any cosmetic ingredient, individual skin reactions can vary. It is always recommended to do a patch test before widespread usage to ensure you do not have an adverse reaction.
This ingredient analysis has been commissioned by Truth In Skincare (TiS), an independent industry regulator. The analysis was conducted by a TiS-appointed industry consultant, using sources including the 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.
