This spotlight article focuses on the active botanical – Pterocarpus marsupium.
While it may be challenging to pronounce, incorporating it into your skincare routine can significantly benefit your skin with its remarkable anti-aging and skin-brightening properties.
Discover the Benefits and Origins of Pterocarpus Marsupium
Pterocarpus marsupium, commonly known as the Indian Kino Tree or Malabar Kino, is a majestic, deciduous tree native to India and Sri Lanka. Esteemed for its extensive health and wellness benefits, this plant has been an integral part of traditional and Ayurvedic medicine for centuries. In recent years, it has gained traction in the skincare industry, illustrating how the finest ingredients can emerge from the harmonious blend of nature and scientific research.
Belonging to the Fabaceae family, the heartwood of the tree is highly valued for its durability. However, the true highlight is its bark, which is rich in healthy phytochemicals. Additionally, the tree excretes a reddish resin from its trunk, contributing to its nickname, the “Indian Kino.”
For centuries, this tree has played a vital role in Ayurvedic healing. From the bark to the leaves and even the resin, various parts of the tree have been utilized for multiple health purposes. Historically, it has been employed to address conditions such as diabetes, inflammation, and various skin ailments, showcasing its versatility as a valuable therapeutic resource.
Exploring the Scientific Foundations of Pterocarpus Marsupium
As an enthusiast in natural skincare ingredients, I find the shift from traditional uses to scientific validation of Pterocarpus marsupium incredibly fascinating.
The bark, characterized by its ability to peel off in large flat pieces, features a surface marked with deep vertical and horizontal fissures. This bark is where the magic unfolds; it is abundant in bioactive compounds that provide a multitude of health benefits.
Unlocking the Phytochemical Composition and Health Benefits
Pterocarpus marsupium bark extract is a treasure trove of beneficial compounds. It’s rich in flavonoids, tannins, and phenolic compounds, each contributing to health enhancement in unique ways. For instance, epicatechin, a type of flavonoid, has demonstrated potential in regulating blood sugar levels, while the phenolic compounds are renowned for their powerful antioxidant properties.
So, just how potent is this antioxidant?
Comparing the antioxidant capabilities of different substances can be complex, as the gold standard may vary depending on the testing methodology and the concentration of the antioxidant. Notably, pterostilbene, a key compound in the Indian Kino Tree, may exhibit greater potency than resveratrol, an antioxidant commonly found in red wine and various berries.
Pterostilbene shares similarities with resveratrol but boasts additional methoxy groups, potentially enhancing its bioavailability and effectiveness as an antioxidant. This is a significant advantage for skincare, as the effectiveness of topical antioxidants often hinges on their ability to penetrate the skin.
Although further research is necessary to fully understand the comparative antioxidant power, preliminary evidence suggests that Pterocarpus marsupium serves as a robust source of antioxidants.
Harnessing the Skincare Benefits of Pterocarpus Marsupium
Skincare is not merely about aesthetics; it involves nurturing your skin to enhance its overall health and vitality.
As a user and creator of natural skincare products, I have personally witnessed the transformative impact of Pterocarpus marsupium extract as a potent ingredient.
Enhancing Skin Health through Antioxidant Properties
The benefits of Pterocarpus marsupium commence with its rich antioxidant properties, stemming from its abundance of flavonoids and phenolic compounds. These antioxidants play a crucial role in shielding the skin from damaging free radicals, which can accelerate the aging process while promoting a natural, radiant glow.
Defending Against Aging: The Anti-Aging Benefits
The combination of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties in Pterocarpus marsupium creates a formidable defense against the visible signs of aging. By safeguarding the skin from free radical damage and alleviating inflammation, this extract aids in maintaining skin elasticity and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. This makes it an excellent addition to skincare routines aimed at combating both aging and inflammation.
Achieving Bright and Radiant Skin: Skin Whitening and Brightening
One of the standout claims of this ingredient is its skin-whitening capabilities. A commercially available variant, containing 90% Pterostilbene and marketed as Pterowhite by Sabinsa, has demonstrated effectiveness in inhibiting melanin production in cultured human cells.
In experimental studies, it was observed that the skin-lightening effect exceeded that of both kojic acid and resveratrol.
The whitening properties make this ingredient a natural alternative to hydroquinone. Although direct comparisons between these two ingredients have yet to be conducted in a research trial, individuals seeking a more natural solution for facial hyperpigmentation might find this ingredient worth exploring.
Promoting Healing: Anti-Inflammation and Wound Recovery
Initial studies, primarily conducted on animals, suggest that pterostilbene may aid in wound healing and strengthen the skin barrier. Coupled with human data indicating minimal irritation among users, this positions it as a safer ingredient for those with sensitive skin.
Guarding Against UV Damage: The Protective Benefits
Due to its antioxidant properties and ability to combat free radicals, pterostilbene has also been investigated for its potential sun-protective effects. This ingredient could enhance the efficacy of sun care products, although it should not replace sunscreen unless thoroughly tested for proper SPF effectiveness.
Exploring the Anti-Cancer Potential of Pterocarpus Marsupium
While research is still in its infancy, preliminary studies indicate that pterostilbene might possess anti-cancer properties, further highlighting this ingredient’s impressive array of benefits.
It is essential to recognize that numerous skincare ingredients have demonstrated similar anti-tumor potential in laboratory studies, with much of the research conducted on diabetic rats or other animal models. Nevertheless, the remarkable capabilities of nature continue to inspire!
Ensuring Safety and Recognizing Potential Side Effects of Pterocarpus Marsupium
Prioritizing safety is crucial. As advancements in biotechnology continue, an increasing number of potent, concentrated natural actives are becoming accessible. While this trend is generally beneficial, the risk of side effects, such as irritation or allergic reactions, remains a possibility, particularly with ultra-concentrated phytochemicals.
The bark extract of Pterocarpus marsupium is regarded as safe for topical application. However, understanding the differences between lightening and brightening your skin is vital. As with any new skincare ingredient, conducting a patch test prior to full application is always advisable to mitigate the risk of allergic reactions.
Navigating Sustainability in the Use of Pterocarpus Marsupium
Sustainability is a pressing concern in the harvesting and production of natural product ingredients.
As of the latest review in 2017, the IUCN has classified this tree as having a decreasing population, with the risk of becoming a threatened species—an alarming situation that could worsen by 2050 if climate change persists.
While I admire the ingredient and its powerful effects, it currently resides on the bareLUXE watch list due to these concerns. Unfortunately, the darker side of plant-based skincare ingredients is something that consumers must remain vigilant about.
Reflecting on the Impact and Future of Pterocarpus Marsupium
From my perspective, I have experienced the benefits of Pterocarpus marsupium firsthand through my formulations, and the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. It is reported to provide brighter skin compared to kojic acid, likely due to its enhanced absorption, which may be further optimized by delivering it in an oil-based serum. You can find it featured in our Vitamin C Oil for Brightening.
As research continues to unveil the potential of this ingredient, I am optimistic it will become a staple in numerous skincare formulations in the future.
However, the potential sustainability issues render it a grey-area ingredient for me. If demand outstrips supply and the supply chain fails to demonstrate sustainable practices, this ingredient may find itself excluded from future formulations.
References
Majeed M, Majeed S, Jain R, Mundkur L, Rajalakshmi HR, Lad PS, Neupane P. An Open-Label Single-Arm, Monocentric Study Assessing the Efficacy and Safety of Natural Pterostilbene (Pterocarpus marsupium) for Skin Brightening and Antiaging Effects. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2020 Jan 31;13:105-116.
Chaiprasongsuk A, Panich U. Role of Phytochemicals in Skin Photoprotection via Regulation of Nrf2. Front Pharmacol. 2022 May 12;13:823881.
Majeed M, Majeed S, Jain R, Mundkur L, Rajalakshmi HR, Lad P, Neupane P. A Randomized Study to Determine the Sun Protection Factor of Natural Pterostilbene from Pterocarpus Marsupium. Cosmetics. 2020; 7(1):16.
Majewski G, Craw J, Falla T. Accelerated Barrier Repair in Human Skin Explants Induced with a Plant-Derived PPAR-α Activating Complex via Cooperative Interactions. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2021 Sep 18;14:1271-1293.
Sirerol JA, Feddi F, Mena S, Rodriguez ML, Sirera P, Aupí M, Pérez S, Asensi M, Ortega A, Estrela JM. Topical treatment with pterostilbene, a natural phytoalexin, effectively protects hairless mice against UVB radiation-induced skin damage and carcinogenesis. Free Radic Biol Med. 2015 Aug;85:1-11.
Hu W, Yu H, Zhou X, Li M, Xiao L, Ruan Q, Huang X, Li L, Xie W, Guo X, Yao P. Topical administration of pterostilbene accelerates burn wound healing in diabetes through activation of the HIF1α signaling pathway. Burns. 2022 Sep;48(6):1452-1461.
