cosmeceuticals
Cosmeceuticals are cosmetic products formulated with bioactive compounds claimed to deliver skin- or appearance-related health benefits, blending elements of both cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. Plants are a primary source of these bioactive ingredients, offering antioxidants, anti-inflammatory agents, and other phytochemicals that researchers study for their potential to protect and rejuvenate skin. Investigating plant-derived compounds for cosmeceutical use helps drive research into traditional medicinal plants and their extractable bioactive constituents.
open_in_new WikipediaPubMed · 2026-06-29
Researchers found that extracts from common plants like flaxseed, garlic, mango ginger, onion, and guduchi can selectively target harmful skin bacteria while encouraging beneficial ones to thrive, offering a scientific basis for plant-derived prebiotic skincare products.
Flaxseed and garlic extracts achieved complete growth inhibition of Staphylococcus aureus within 6 hours.
Mango ginger extract halted Cutibacterium acnes (acne-causing bacteria) growth within 15 minutes.
Onion and guduchi selectively promoted Staphylococcus epidermidis (a beneficial skin commensal) while inhibiting pathogens; stimulated S. epidermidis produced elevated butyric and succinic acids with documented antibacterial activity.