centaurea cyanus flower extract

Centaurea cyanus flower extract is a botanical preparation derived from the flowers of Centaurea cyanus (commonly known as cornflower or bachelor's button), a member of the Asteraceae family native to Europe. The extract is typically obtained by maceration or distillation of the dried or fresh flowers and contains various bioactive compounds including flavonoids, polyphenols, anthocyanins (notably protocyanin), coumarins, sesquiterpene lactones, and phenolic acids such as chlorogenic acid and caffeic acid[4][5][7][8]. It is rich in antioxidants and has demonstrated anti-inflammatory, anti-irritant, antioxidant, diuretic, wound-healing, skin-conditioning and mild astringent properties[4][5][6][7]. Traditionally used in herbal medicine for dyspepsia and as an eyewash for eye irritation or inflammation[5], it is now widely incorporated into cosmetic products for its moisturizing effects on skin hydration and soothing benefits in creams/lotions for sensitive skin areas such as around the eyes[4][6]. Some studies have also reported mild antihypertensive activity in vitro due to its polyphenol content[8]. The mechanism of action primarily involves antioxidant activity (scavenging free radicals), anti-inflammatory effects (possibly via cyclooxygenase inhibition), epidermal hydration enhancement through tocopherols/flavonoids content[4], and possible modulation of serotoninergic pathways by specific constituents like moschamine[8].

Other names

centaurea cyanus flowercornflower extractbachelor's button extractblue cornflower extract