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Ingredient · INCI reference

Poterium Officinale Root Extract

A botanical extract from the root of great burnet (Poterium officinale, also known as Sanguisorba officinalis), used in skincare as a conditioning and soothing agent.

What it is

Poterium Officinale Root Extract is obtained from the root of great burnet, a plant rich in tannins and other polyphenolic constituents. In cosmetics it is used for its conditioning and soothing properties, and its tannin content is associated with a mild astringent effect. It is typically incorporated at low levels in the water phase of skin and sun care products.

Safety & warnings

Burnet root extract is generally well tolerated in topical use. Because it contains tannins with astringent activity, sensitive individuals may occasionally experience tightness or irritation, and overall tolerability depends on concentration and formulation.

Origin & sourcing

Natural, plant-derived. It is prepared from the roots of Poterium officinale (Sanguisorba officinalis), a perennial herb long used in traditional botanical preparations.

Questions everyone asks

What plant is this extract from?

It is from the root of great burnet, Poterium officinale, also classified as Sanguisorba officinalis, a tannin-rich perennial herb.

What does it do in skincare?

It serves as a soothing, skin-conditioning botanical with mild astringent character from its tannin content; it is not a UV filter.

Sources & references

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