Centella Asiatica Extract
Also known as Gotu Kola Extract, Centella Extract, CICA Extract
“CIR Expert Panel says: safe as used in cosmetics.”
The CIR Expert Panel assessed nine Centella asiatica-derived ingredients, including Centella Asiatica Extract, as safe in current cosmetic use concentrations when formulated to be non-sensitizing (Final report 06/2015; re-reviewed in IJT 2023, PMID 36812692). The primary bioactive triterpenoids — asiaticoside and madecassoside — have documented anti-inflammatory, wound-healing, and collagen-stimulating properties across a broad body of in vitro and in vivo research (PMID 36756687). Sensitization potential is the primary safety concern, motivating the CIR's non-sensitizing formulation condition.
Anti-inflammatory activity via asiaticoside and madecassoside triterpenoids
Wound healing and skin regeneration — stimulates collagen synthesis and fibroblast migration
Antioxidant properties supporting UV-related skin protection
Barrier-reinforcing and soothing effects documented in sensitive skin clinical studies
- · Sensitization potential — CIR condition requires formulation to be non-sensitizing
- · Cumulative sensitization risk when co-formulated with other botanical allergens (e.g., plants in Apiaceae/Umbelliferae family cross-reactors)
CIR Quick Reference Table (12/2017, revised 07/2018) — Centella Asiatica Extract row: Finding=SQ, Citation=Final report 06/2015 available…
“Centella Asiatica Extract | SQ | safe as used when formulated to be non-sensitizing | Final report 06/2015 available from CIR”— QRT-122017revised072018.pdf, p. 22