What it is
Angelica keiskei is a leafy plant native to Japan, known as ashitaba, whose extract contains polyphenolic compounds including chalcones. In cosmetics it is used as a conditioning agent and is valued for the antioxidant character of its plant constituents. It is found in sunscreens and moisturizers as a supportive botanical ingredient.
Safety & warnings
Generally used as a well-tolerated conditioning botanical, though as with any plant extract occasional sensitivity is possible in predisposed individuals.
Origin & sourcing
Natural botanical extract derived from the Angelica keiskei (ashitaba) plant, native to Japan.
History
Ashitaba has a long history of traditional dietary and folk use in Japan, and that heritage supports its inclusion as a botanical in skin-care products.
Questions everyone asks
What is ashitaba?
Ashitaba is the common name for Angelica keiskei, a Japanese plant whose extract is used as a conditioning, antioxidant botanical in cosmetics.
What does the extract contribute to a sunscreen?
It serves as a skin-conditioning and antioxidant ingredient drawn from the plant's polyphenolic constituents, not as a UV filter.