Lemon verbena hydrosol is a colorless liquid, extracted through hydrodistillation. Boasting various benefits, it is found in the composition of several cosmetic treatments for the skin. Let's explore together all the topical virtues that lemon verbena floral water can offer.
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What are the properties of lemon verbena hydrosol for the skin?
Summary
- The lemon verbena hydrosol to combat bacterial proliferation
- The floral water of lemon verbena possesses antioxidant properties
- The hydrosol of lemon verbena has anti-inflammatory activity
- Lemon verbena floral water to mitigate the signs of skin sagging
- Lemon verbena hydrosol, a solution for stretch marks?
- Our antioxidant mask with lemon verbena floral water
- Sources
Published May 15, 2023,
updated on October 4, 2024,
by
Pauline, Chemical Engineer
—
6 min read
The lemon verbena hydrosol to combat bacterial proliferation.
Lemon verbena hydrosol has proven antibacterial properties. Indeed, it contains several active ingredients capable of combating the growth of certain bacteria. It is particularly rich in eucalyptol and alpha-terpineol, compounds that work in synergy against Staphylococcus aureus, a pathogen responsible for food poisoning and localized infections. From a biological perspective, eucalyptol and alpha-terpineol inhibit the transcription factor NF-κB, which regulates the expression of most of the body's pro-inflammatory proteins.
The lemon verbena hydrosol also contains linalool, a compound that inhibits the ability of bacteria to communicate with each other via molecular mediators (quorum sensing). It particularly acts against Cutibacterium acnes, the bacteria responsible foracne. Thus, lemon hydrosol can be used as an antiseptic in case of injury or to prevent bacterial contamination.
The floral water of lemon verbena possesses antioxidant properties.
This botanical extract is favored by skin lacking radiance or heavily exposed to pollution due to its antioxidant properties. Lemon verbena floral water also protects the skin from photoaging and limits the appearance of pigment spots. These various virtues come from its high citral content (≈ 50%), which makes up nearly half of the composition of the lemon verbena hydrosol.
A recent study conducted on mice has highlighted the antioxidant properties of citral. Researchers applied a cream containing 1% citral to shaved mice that had previously been exposed to UVB rays for 5 minutes. This experiment was repeated daily for 24 weeks and, in the end, it was observed that the mice on which the cream had been applied had significantly fewer tumors.
From a mechanistic perspective, citral has activated the transcription factor Nrf2 by dissociating it from its inhibitor KEAP1. This has allowed for an increase in the production of glutathione, a tripeptide involved in the conversion of the oxidized form of ascorbic acid into vitamin C. Glutathione is also capable of neutralizing free radicals through an electron donation, which prevents them from damaging the tissues and cells of the body.
The hydrosol of lemon verbena has anti-inflammatory activity.
Lemon verbena hydrosol also has an anti-inflammatory action. The linalool in its composition allows it to promote the synthesis of HSP70 proteins (Heat Shock Protein). These proteins ensure the proper conformation of proteins found in the body's cells and help them protect against external stressors (heat, heavy metals...), which could potentially cause inflammatory responses.
Furthermore, lemon verbena floral water contains geranial. A study has shown that this molecule inhibits the activity of NLRP3, a inflammasome complex that triggers an inflammatory signaling pathway. It notably increases the synthesis of interleukin-1 (IL-1) and interleukin-4 (IL-4), which are pro-inflammatory cytokines. Therefore, the application of lemon verbena hydrosol is beneficial for easing pain that sometimes accompanies healing.
Lemon verbena floral water to mitigate the signs of skin sagging.
Lemon verbena hydrosol is attributed with tightening effects that can reduce wrinkles and other signs of skin sagging. Although no study has highlighted this property when applying lemon verbena floral water topically, it is true that it has been shown that the oral intake of a dietary supplement based on lemon verbena, Japanese sophora, olive, and rosemary by a hundred women for twelve weeks proved to be beneficial for the skin.
Scientists have notably observed an increase in the overall elasticity and hydration of the epidermis, a decrease in transepidermal water loss (TEWL), and a reduction in the depth of facial wrinkles. It's important to note once again that this study pertains to oral intake and not topical application, which does not allow us to make a definitive statement about the tightening effect of lemon verbena hydrosol.
Lemon verbena hydrosol, a solution for stretch marks?
Some sources suggest that lemon verbena hydrosol may have effects on purple stretch marks. These form following the rupture of collagen fibers in the dermis, when the skin undergoes significant tension, often induced by rapid weight gain or loss.
Nevertheless, no study to date has been able to prove that lemon verbena hydrosol has an effect on stretch marks. Furthermore, no mechanism by which the botanical extract would act has been proposed. Therefore, we cannot comment on the effects of lemon verbena floral water on stretch marks.
Our antioxidant mask with lemon verbena floral water.
Affecting all skin types, dullness is often exacerbated by lack of sleep, pollution, or a deficient diet. However, this lackluster effect can be mitigated by incorporating antioxidants into skincare products.
Our radiance mask with lemon verbena hydrosol (INCI: Lippia Citriodora Leaf Water), turmeric (INCI: Curcuma Longa Root Extract) and yellow clay (INCI: Kaolin) is an essential ally to restore the radiance of your complexion. The synergy of these ingredients revitalizes the epidermis and protects it from the effects of oxidative stress, by neutralizing free radicals.
Furthermore, this mask provides a healthy glow effect and leaves the complexion even and radiant. It also has a purifying activity and leaves the skin softer and the skin texture more refined.
Sources
KIM D. & al. Artemisia princeps Pamp. Essential oil and its constituents eucalyptol and α-terpineol ameliorate bacterial vaginosis and vulvovaginal candidiasis in mice by inhibiting bacterial growth and NF-κB activation. Planta Medica (2011).
CANAC P. & al. Traité d'Aromathérapie scientifique et médicale, les hydrolats (1ère édition). Paris : Édition Sang de la Terre (2018).
LUIZ R. & al. Citral prevents UVB-induced skin carcinogenesis in hairless mice. Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology (2019).
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