Centella asiatica, also known as Gotu Kola, Tiger Grass, etc., is a perennial herb in the genus Centella of the family Umbelliferae, and has a long history of use in China. In traditional Chinese medicine, Centella asiatica is widely used to treat diseases such as damp-heat jaundice, carbuncle sores, sore throat and so on.
In the field of skin care, Centella asiatica is also effective. Its extracts mainly contain triterpenoids (e.g., Asiatic acid, Madecassoside, Madecassic acid, Asiaticoside), flavonoids, polyynes, and other ingredients. Of these, the following 4 ingredients are particularly crucial:
1l Asiatic acid: Strengthens the skin barrier, anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial, protects aainst UV rays, promotes wound healing and improves elasticity
1l Madecassoside: Antioxidant, antibacterial, immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory and sedative, promotes skin regeneration, improves texture.
1l Madecassic acid: Minimizes scarring, calms and soothes, repairs damaged skin.
1l Asiaticoside: Regulates water-oil balance, promotes skin growth, facilitates collagen synthesis.
Chemical Formula
Asiaticoside: C48H78O19
Asiatic Acid: C30H48O5
Benefits of centella asiatica
l Promoting Skin Repair
Triterpenoid compounds in Centella Asiatica extract stimulate the proliferation of fibroblasts and the synthesis of collagen, thereby increasing skin elasticity and firmness.
The mechanism of action primarily involves the activation of specific signaling pathways, such as the TGF-β/Smad pathway, which promotes collagen synthesis and accelerates the wound healing process. This extract is highly effective in repairing skin damage from acne, acne marks, sunburn, and other skin injuries.
l Anti-inflammatory/Antioxidant
Triterpenoid compounds in Centella Asiatica extract can inhibit the release of inflammatory factors and reduce skin inflammation. It provides soothing and calming effects for sensitive and acne-prone skin.
Additionally, polyphenols and flavonoids in Centella Asiatica extract possess strong free radical scavenging abilities, which can reduce oxidative damage and delay skin aging.
l Enhancing Skin Barrier Function
Centella Asiatica extract promotes the proliferation and differentiation of epidermal cells, thereby enhancing the skin’s barrier function and preventing moisture loss and the intrusion of harmful external substances.
l Synergistic Effects
Ingredients such as Purslane Extract, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Allantoin, and Witch Hazel Extract offer similar benefits to Centella Asiatica. When used in conjunction, they provide enhanced effects in anti-inflammation, soothing, repairing, and moisturizing.
Furthermore, Centella Asiatica can synergize with other ingredients to deliver more potent skincare benefits:
In combination with Sodium Hyaluronate, it enhances moisturizing and soothing effects for sensitive skin.
l When paired with Ceramides, it helps repair the skin barrier and maintain skin stability.
l With Vitamin C, it amplifies antioxidant properties and brightens the complexion.
l Together with Niacinamide, it improves skin brightness, reduces dark spots, controls oil, and treats acne.
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