What it is
Sanguisorba officinalis, known as great burnet, is a perennial herb long used in traditional East Asian herbal practice, and its root is rich in tannins and other polyphenols. In cosmetics the root extract is included as a skin-conditioning botanical and is often valued for astringent, soothing qualities. It commonly appears in sun care and skincare formulas as a supporting plant ingredient.
Safety & warnings
Generally well tolerated in cosmetic use. Because the root is tannin-rich, it has an astringent character that very rarely may feel tightening; sensitization is possible in those reactive to botanicals, so patch testing is reasonable for sensitive skin.
Origin & sourcing
Plant-derived: prepared from the root of Sanguisorba officinalis, a herb native to temperate regions of Europe and Asia.
History
Great burnet has a long history in traditional East Asian herbal use; its adoption in modern cosmetics reflects interest in such botanical extracts as conditioning agents.
Questions everyone asks
What is great burnet?
Great burnet (Sanguisorba officinalis) is a herb whose tannin-rich root is used in traditional herbal practice and, in cosmetics, as a skin-conditioning extract.
Why is the root used?
The root is the part richest in tannins and polyphenols, which give the extract its astringent, conditioning character in formulas.