Ilex paraguariensis extract (inci)

Ilex paraguariensis extract, is the extract from the leaves of the mate tea shrub. The drug is used in cosmetic formulations.

Methylxanthines (caffeine: at least 0.4% according to DAC; theobromine and small amounts of theophylline), 4-14% caffeoylquinic acids, catechol tanning agents, furthermore flavonoids and triterpenes, phenol carboxylic acids: chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid.

The extracts have a strengthening effect on skin or hair. They also act as aromatics and reduce or inhibit the basic smell or taste of a product.

In addition, the extracts have an anti-inflammatory effect when applied externally (Schinella G et al. 2014) and an anti-growth effect on Malassezia furfur at a concentration of (1000 mg/ml) (Filip R et al. 2010). The antimycotic effect is comparable to ketoconazole in a concentration of 2.7 microg/ml.

1. Filip R et al (2010) Antifungal activity of the aqueous extract of Ilex paraguariensis against Malassezia furfur. Phytother Res 24:715-719.
2. Schinella G et al (2014) An aqueous extract of Ilex paraguariensis reduces carrageenan-induced edema and inhibits the expression of cyclooxygenase-2 and inducible nitric oxide synthase in animal models of inflammation. Planta Med 80:961-968.