What it is
Centella Asiatica Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract is derived from the flowering and leafy parts of the gotu kola plant, a herb long cultivated across Asia. It contains characteristic triterpenoid compounds such as asiaticoside, madecassoside, asiatic acid, and madecassic acid, which are associated with its skin-conditioning and calming reputation. In sunscreen formulas it is commonly included as a supporting botanical, often marketed under the broader 'cica' theme.
Safety & warnings
Generally well tolerated as a cosmetic extract. As a botanical it can occasionally provoke sensitivity in predisposed individuals, but it is not considered a common allergen at typical use levels.
Origin & sourcing
Natural; a botanical extract prepared from the flowers, leaves, and stems of Centella asiatica, a member of the Apiaceae family native to wetland regions of Asia.
History
Centella asiatica has a long record of use in traditional Asian herbal practice and became widely popular in modern Korean and Japanese skincare under the 'cica' branding.
Questions everyone asks
What is 'cica' in skincare?
'Cica' is a marketing term referring to Centella asiatica extracts and their components, used in products positioned as soothing or calming.
Does Centella extract provide sun protection?
No. It is a botanical conditioning ingredient and is not a UV filter; the SPF comes from the dedicated filters in the formula.