Buddleja Davidii Flower Extract — INCI reference

What it is

Buddleja Davidii Flower Extract is derived from the flowers of Buddleja davidii, a deciduous shrub native to central China. The extract is rich in carotenoids (crocin, crocetin) and flavonoids (quercetin, rutin, sinapic acid, picrocrocin), which collectively contribute to antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiaging activity. In vitro studies show the flower extract scavenges free radicals (DPPH IC50 ~56 mg/L, outperforming BHT), inhibits inflammatory mediators such as TNF-α and nitric oxide, and suppresses aging-related enzymes including collagenase and matrix metalloproteinases. Cell viability testing on human melanocytes, dermal fibroblasts, and macrophages showed no toxic effects at up to 200 mg/L, supporting cosmetic safety. The extract is used primarily as a skin conditioning and antioxidant agent in serums, eye gels, and sunscreen formulations.

Safety & warnings

In vitro cytotoxicity testing on human epidermal melanocytes, dermal fibroblasts, and macrophage cell lines showed no toxic effects at concentrations up to 200 mg/L, suggesting a favorable safety profile for topical use. No specific allergen designations or comedogenicity data are established for this extract. As with other botanical extracts, individuals with known plant or pollen sensitivities should perform a patch test before use. No CIR or EU CosIng safety assessment specific to the flower extract has been published as of 2026.

Origin & sourcing

The plant Buddleja davidii is native to Sichuan and Hubei provinces of central China and was first documented by European naturalists in the late 19th century. For cosmetic use, flowers are typically harvested from cultivated shrubs, then extracted with water or aqueous solvents. Extracts may be concentrated via rotary vacuum evaporation and freeze-dried to a powder. Altitude of cultivation (1,000–2,000 m) influences phytochemical content.

History

Buddleja davidii was first collected by French missionary Armand David in the 1860s–1870s and formally described by botanist Adrien René Franch in 1887. Seeds reached European horticulture via Jean-André Soulié in the 1890s and the Royal Horticultural Society awarded it the Award of Merit in 1898. Cosmetic application of its extracts gained scientific attention following research in the 2020s characterizing the antioxidant and antiaging activity of flower, stem, and leaf extracts.

Questions everyone asks

What does Buddleja Davidii Flower Extract do for skin?

It acts as a skin-conditioning antioxidant. Its carotenoids and flavonoids (crocin, quercetin, rutin) scavenge free radicals, suppress inflammatory mediators like TNF-α, and inhibit collagenase, making it useful in antiaging and soothing formulations.

Is Buddleja Davidii Flower Extract safe for cosmetic use?

Laboratory studies testing on three human cell types showed no toxic effects at concentrations up to 200 mg/L. No significant safety concerns have been flagged by major regulatory bodies, though people with botanical or pollen allergies should patch test.

What are the main active compounds in Buddleja Davidii Flower Extract?

The primary bioactive compounds are the carotenoids crocin and crocetin (responsible for antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects) and the flavonoids quercetin and rutin, along with sinapic acid and picrocrocin.

How is Buddleja Davidii Flower Extract produced?

Flowers from cultivated Buddleja davidii shrubs are extracted with distilled water or aqueous solvents, then concentrated under reduced pressure and dried to produce a standardized powder or liquid concentrate for cosmetic formulation.