Bakuchiol Oil Extract (Bakuchi Fruit Extract)

Bakuchiol Extract (Bakuchi Fruit Extract) – Plant-based Retinol Alternative for Cosmetics, Food, and Dietary Supplements (CAS: 56-81-5)

Bakuchiol Extract (Bakuchi Fruit Extract) is derived from the seeds or fruits of the plant Psoralea corylifolia (also known as "Bakuchi" or "Babchi"). The plant originally comes from Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine, where its ingredients have been used for centuries. In recent years, Bakuchiol has gained significant attention in the cosmetics industry as it is considered a plant-based "retinol alternative" – with comparable effects on the skin, but often better tolerability.

Important active ingredients in Bakuchiol extract

• Bakuchiol: A natural, phenolic compound that has structural similarities to retinol but is less irritating.
• Antioxidant compounds: Accompanying secondary plant substances and polyphenols can contribute to protection against oxidative stress.
• Essential oils: Careful extraction processes preserve the aromatic components that give the extract a distinctive profile.

Application in Cosmetics

Bakuchiol has established itself as a gentle alternative to retinol and is used in a range of skincare products:

• Anti-Aging Effects: Studies suggest that Bakuchiol can stimulate collagen synthesis and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles – similar to retinol, but often with less irritation.
• Improved Skin Texture: Bakuchiol can help smooth the skin's appearance and make the complexion look more even by supporting cell renewal.
• Photoprotection: Its antioxidant properties contribute to protection against sun-induced skin damage.
• Tolerance: Particularly for sensitive or irritation-prone skin, Bakuchiol is an interesting option as it is less drying than classic retinol.

Use in food

The traditional use of Psoralea corylifolia in Asian cuisine is rather rare and is mostly limited to medical or ritual contexts. Isolated use of Bakuchiol in food is currently hardly taking place due to the lack of approvals or established standards:currently hardly occurs:

• No approved additive: Unlike some other plant extracts, Bakuchiol is not registered as a food additive.
• Traditional remedy: In some regional cuisines or healing drinks, ground seeds are used as an ingredient, but in very small amounts.

Potential for dietary supplements

Bakuchiol is occasionally discussed as an ingredient in “beauty-from-within” concepts, focusing on its potential antioxidant and cell-protective properties. However, this area of application is currently rather exotic:

• No EU-wide harmonized health claims: There are currently no approved health-related claims for Bakuchiol under the EU Health Claims Regulation.
• Regulatory uncertainties: The permissibility and maximum amounts for oral intake in dietary supplements are not clearly defined and require individual case assessment.

Note: Dietary supplements are not a substitute for a balanced diet. The recommended daily dosage should not be exceeded.

Manufacturing and purity

Bakuchiol extract (Bakuchi Fruit Extract) is usually obtained through an extraction-based process specifically aimed at maximizing the bakuchiol content and removing undesirable substances. Criteria for a high-quality extract include:

• Standardized bakuchiol content: A bakuchiol content of 95% or more is often targeted to ensure consistent quality and effectiveness.
• Purity: Free from impurities, pesticide residues, or excessive psoralens (materially conditioned: Psoralea corylifolia contains furocoumarins, which can have phototoxic effects – hence purification is important).
• Gentle processing: Low temperatures and adapted extraction agents preserve the sensitive, active molecules.

Recommended usage concentration

Cosmetic products: Typical usage amounts for facial creams, serums, or night care range from 0.5–2%. At higher concentrations (up to 2%), the anti-aging effects may be enhanced, but the risk of skin irritation also increases.

Food & dietary supplements: Currently, no standardized dosage recommendations are known.Any use in supplements requires a thorough examination of the legal framework and quality standards.

Clinical Studies and Efficacy

Increasing studies demonstrate the skin-regenerating and antioxidant properties of Bakuchiol. Several publications indicate comparable results to Retinol, particularly in wrinkle reduction and improvement of skin texture, but with less irritation. Further large-scale studies are underway to confirm the exact spectrum of effects even more comprehensively. (Sources: British Journal of Dermatology, International Journal of Cosmetic Science)

Conclusion: Bakuchiol Extract – A Gentle Alternative with Broad Potential

Bakuchiol Extract (Bakuchi Fruit Extract) combines plant-based origins with modern anti-aging claims. Its ability to exhibit retinol-like effects without causing significant irritation to the skin makes it particularly attractive for formulations in cosmetics – suitable for both sensitive and mature skin.While the culinary and supplementary use is rather rare due to regulatory hurdles, Bakuchiol still offers an exciting field of innovation: from classic skincare to forward-looking "beauty-from-within" concepts, Bakuchiol could play a prominent role, provided that scientific and legal foundations are further solidified.