What it is
Asiaticoside is one of the main biologically active components of Centella asiatica, the medicinal plant known as gotu kola. It is a pentacyclic triterpenoid glycoside (saponin) consisting of the aglycone asiatic acid linked to a trisaccharide of glucose, rhamnose, and glucose, with the molecular formula C48H78O19. In cosmetics it functions as an antioxidant and skin-conditioning agent and is associated with calming, restorative care; laboratory studies link it to support of skin matrix components such as glycosaminoglycans and collagen. It commonly appears alongside madecassoside in centella-based soothing products.
Safety & warnings
Asiaticoside is widely used in K-beauty and other soothing formulations and is generally regarded as suitable for sensitive skin. As an isolated plant constituent it avoids some variability of whole botanical extracts, but individuals with a known sensitivity to Centella asiatica or gotu kola should still use such products cautiously and consider a patch test before regular use.
Origin & sourcing
Asiaticoside is a naturally occurring compound made by Centella asiatica, a herb native to the Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia, parts of Australia, and wetland regions of the southeastern United States. It is one of the plant's principal triterpene glycosides and, for cosmetic use, is obtained by extraction from the plant.
History
Centella asiatica has been used in traditional Ayurvedic, Chinese, and other Asian medical systems, notably for skin and wound care. Its triterpene constituents, including asiaticoside and the related madecassoside, were chemically characterized by around the mid-twentieth century, with the plant yielding roughly 124 identified compounds over the course of later study.
Questions everyone asks
What does asiaticoside do for skin?
It is a centella-derived ingredient used to soothe and condition skin and to provide antioxidant support. It is popular in calming products and is often paired with madecassoside.
Is asiaticoside natural?
Yes. It is a natural triterpene saponin extracted from Centella asiatica, the plant known as gotu kola.
Is asiaticoside the same as Centella or cica?
Not exactly. Centella asiatica (often labeled cica) is the whole plant, while asiaticoside is one specific active compound isolated from it, alongside others such as madecassoside and asiatic acid.