Withania Somnifera Root Extract

Best

Antioxidant

Withania Somnifera Root Extract at a glance

  • Plant extract that is also known as ashwagandha
  • Compromised of antioxidant compounds that help defend skin from environmental stressors
  • Can also help mitigate visible signs of aging
  • Contains skin-beneficial acids: ascorbic, caffeic, and ferulic

Withania Somnifera Root Extract description

_Withania somnifera_ root extract (also known as ashwagandha) is comprised of antioxidant compounds that help defend skin from environmental stressors and mitigate visible signs of aging. It is also known for its soothing properties. Beneficial phytochemical constituents of Withania somnifera root extract include ascorbic, caffeic, and ferulic acids. Claims around this ingredient often extol its “adaptogenic” properties. The term “adaptogenic” refers to plants that can adapt to environmental changes in the wild. The theory is that they can do the same for skin, though there isn’t a lot of hard research proving that’s the case (your skin isn’t the biologic equivalent of a plant). Still, even if they don’t help skin adapt to changing external conditions, the antioxidant benefits have merit in a skin care product. In skin care, this ingredient is typically combined with glycerin, propanediol, or plant-derived sugars. Usage levels of this blend range from 0.5–2%. Withania somnifera root extract has a long history of use in Ayurvedic medicine, as well other traditional uses around the world. Key Points:

Withania Somnifera Root Extract references

  • Science Direct Summary, Accessed September 2022, ePublication
  • International Dose-Response Society, March 2022, ePublication
  • PLOS One, September 2015, pages 1-9

Peer-reviewed, substantiated scientific research is used to assess ingredients in this dictionary. Regulations regarding constraints, permitted concentration levels and availability vary by country and region.

Ingredient ratings

Best

Proven and supported by independent studies. Outstanding active ingredient for most skin types or concerns.

Good

Necessary to improve a formula's texture, stability, or penetration.

Average

Generally non-irritating but may have aesthetic, stability, or other issues that limit its usefulness.

Bad

There is a likelihood of irritation. Risk increases when combined with other problematic ingredients.

Worst

May cause irritation, inflammation, dryness, etc. May offer benefit in some capability but overall, proven to do more harm than good.

unknown

We couldn't find this in our ingredient dictionary. We log all missing ingredients and make continuous updates.

Not rated

We have not yet rated this ingredient because we have not had a chance to review the research on it.