Arachis Hypogaea Sprout Extract — INCI reference

What it is

Arachis Hypogaea Sprout Extract is obtained from the sprouts of germinated peanuts (Arachis hypogaea L.). During germination, resveratrol levels in the sprouted seeds increase dramatically—up to 90-fold compared to ungerminated peanuts—making sprout extract a particularly concentrated source of this stilbene polyphenol. The extract also contains isoflavones (daidzin, genistin, genistein), other polyphenols, and essential amino acids. In cosmetics, it is used for its antioxidant capacity, which helps protect skin against oxidative stress and reactive oxygen species associated with UV exposure and environmental ageing. Research indicates the extract can upregulate hyaluronic acid synthase-2 (HAS-2), supporting skin moisturisation and barrier function. It may additionally contribute mild skin-conditioning and anti-inflammatory effects. Due to its peanut origin, formulations must be evaluated for residual allergenic proteins.

Safety & warnings

Peanut-derived ingredients carry a well-established risk of allergic reactions, including severe IgE-mediated responses in peanut-allergic individuals. EU cosmetics regulations restrict residual peanut protein to a maximum of 0.5 ppm in finished products. Individuals with peanut allergies should exercise caution with products listing this ingredient. The extract's resveratrol and isoflavone content may have mild phytoestrogenic activity, though this is not considered a safety concern at typical cosmetic use concentrations.

Origin & sourcing

Derived from the seedlings (sprouts) of Arachis hypogaea (peanut), a legume in the Fabaceae family native to South America and widely cultivated throughout tropical and subtropical regions. Sprouts are prepared by germinating peanut kernels for approximately 7 days, then extracting with aqueous ethanol or water. Germination significantly concentrates bioactive stilbenes, particularly resveratrol, relative to the ungerminated seed.

History

Peanut (Arachis hypogaea) has been cultivated for over 7,000 years in South America and introduced globally following European exploration. Research into peanut sprout extracts accelerated in the 2010s after studies demonstrated that germination dramatically amplifies resveratrol content. Academic publications from 2014 onwards investigated anti-obesity, antioxidant, and skin-moisturising properties of peanut sprout extracts. The ingredient was subsequently adopted into cosmetic formulations to leverage its polyphenol-rich profile.

Questions everyone asks

Why does peanut sprout extract contain more resveratrol than regular peanuts?

Germination triggers a stress response in the developing seedling that induces production of resveratrol as a natural defence compound. Studies report resveratrol levels in peanut sprouts up to 90 times higher than in ungerminated peanut kernels, making the sprout extract a much richer source of thi

Is peanut sprout extract safe for people with peanut allergies?

Products containing peanut-derived ingredients may pose a risk to individuals with peanut allergies. EU regulations cap residual allergenic peanut protein at 0.5 ppm in cosmetics. Anyone with a known peanut allergy should consult a dermatologist before using products containing this ingredient.

What skin benefits does Arachis Hypogaea Sprout Extract provide?

The extract functions primarily as an antioxidant, helping to neutralise reactive oxygen species that contribute to oxidative skin ageing. Research also indicates it can upregulate hyaluronic acid synthase-2, supporting skin hydration and barrier function, along with general skin conditioning effect

How does peanut sprout extract differ from peanut oil used in cosmetics?

Peanut oil (Arachis Hypogaea Oil) is a lipid used mainly for emolliency and moisture sealing. Peanut sprout extract is a polyphenol-rich water- or ethanol-based extract valued primarily for its antioxidant and bioactive compound content, particularly its high resveratrol and isoflavone concentration