Myrtus Communis Fruit Extract — INCI reference

What it is

Myrtus Communis Fruit Extract is obtained from the blue-black berries of common myrtle, an evergreen shrub native to the Mediterranean basin, North Africa, and Western Asia. The fruit is exceptionally rich in polyphenols (up to 271 mg GAE/g dry weight), anthocyanins — predominantly malvidin-3-O-glucoside — flavonols, hydroxybenzoic acids, and hydroxycinnamic acids. These compounds confer potent antioxidant activity, helping to neutralize free radicals that contribute to skin aging. The extract also contains phytosterols (notably β-sitosterol) and a high proportion of polyunsaturated fatty acids, which may support the skin barrier. Antimicrobial properties are attributed to volatile constituents including myrtenyl acetate, 1,8-cineole, and α-pinene. In formulations the extract functions primarily as an antioxidant and skin conditioner.

Safety & warnings

The fruit extract contains volatile aromatic components including 1,8-cineole, α-pinene, and linalool. Linalool and limonene can oxidize on exposure to air and become skin sensitizers; 1,8-cineole may cause short- or long-term irritation in sensitive individuals. Potential reactions include tightness, dryness, redness, or itchiness. Individuals with known sensitivity to fragrance components or other Myrtaceae-family botanicals should patch-test before use. No significant allergen designations are established specifically for the fruit extract under EU cosmetics regulation.

Origin & sourcing

Derived from the ripe fruit (berries) of Myrtus communis L. (family Myrtaceae), a Mediterranean shrub cultivated across Southern Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia. The berries are harvested when ripe and blue-black in color, then extracted using water, alcohol, or supercritical CO₂ methods that concentrate polyphenols, anthocyanins, and fatty acid fractions from the peel and pulp.

History

Myrtus communis has been used medicinally and culinarily in Mediterranean cultures for centuries — the berries are traditionally macerated in alcohol to produce Mirto liqueur in Sardinia. The plant has historical uses in treating inflammation, skin disorders, and respiratory conditions. Modern research has characterized the fruit's rich anthocyanin and polyphenol profile, leading to interest in it as a natural colorant and cosmetic antioxidant. The genus gives its name to the family Myrtaceae, which includes eucalyptus and cloves.

Questions everyone asks

What makes Myrtle Fruit Extract effective as an antioxidant?

The berries of Myrtus communis contain exceptionally high levels of polyphenols — up to 271 mg gallic acid equivalents per gram dry weight — including anthocyanins, flavonols, and hydroxycinnamic acids.

Is Myrtle Fruit Extract the same as Myrtle Leaf Extract?

No. Both come from Myrtus communis but are derived from different plant parts and have somewhat different chemical profiles. The fruit extract is particularly rich in anthocyanins and phytosterols from the berry peel, while the leaf extract is higher in essential oil components and tannins.

Can Myrtle Fruit Extract cause skin irritation?

It is possible for sensitive individuals. The extract contains volatile aromatic compounds — including 1,8-cineole, α-pinene, and linalool — that can act as skin sensitizers, especially as they oxidize.

What other industries use Myrtle Fruit Extract?

Beyond cosmetics, myrtle fruit extract is studied as a natural food colorant due to its vivid anthocyanin-derived purple color, which is stable and derived from wild-harvested fruit.