What Is Anthyllis Vulneraria Extract?
Anthyllis Vulneraria Extract comes from the whole flowering plant commonly called woundwort or kidney vetch. Belonging to the pea family, this hardy yellow wildflower has long been used in folk care for its soothing qualities. In the lab, the plant is harvested, cleaned, then dried before undergoing a gentle solvent or water-glycol extraction that pulls out its helpful molecules. These include flavonoids, tannins, saponins and small amounts of natural sugars that together offer calming and softening effects on skin.
Once filtered and concentrated, the extract is standardized for quality and added to cosmetic bases. You will most often spot it in soothing face masks, daily moisturizers, lightweight serums, after-sun gels, baby lotions and products aimed at tired or fragile skin. Brands looking for a botanical alternative to synthetic conditioners choose it for its history of skin comfort and its mild nature.
Anthyllis Vulneraria Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This extract is valued in formulas for its skin conditioning ability, meaning it helps keep the skin surface smooth, supple and balanced. By drawing in moisture and supporting the skin barrier, it can leave the complexion feeling softer and looking healthier while dialing down redness or tightness that often follows cleansing or environmental stress.
Who Can Use Anthyllis Vulneraria Extract
Thanks to its gentle profile, Anthyllis Vulneraria Extract is generally suitable for every skin type including dry, oily, combination and especially sensitive skin that needs calming support. Those with a known allergy to peas, beans or other members of the Fabaceae family should approach with caution because cross reactions, while uncommon, are possible.
The extract is completely plant based and produced without animal derivatives, making it acceptable for vegans and vegetarians as long as the finished formula also avoids animal sourced additives such as beeswax or lanolin.
No specific issues have been flagged for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when using this ingredient topically. It is considered mild and non-systemic, yet this does not replace professional guidance; expectant or nursing mothers should run any skincare routine past a healthcare provider just to be safe.
The extract is not known to cause photosensitivity and does not contain phototoxic constituents, so it will not increase vulnerability to sunburn. Standard daytime sun protection is still advised. Beyond that there are no notable age, gender or ethnic restrictions, and it plays well with most other cosmetic actives.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Anthyllis Vulneraria Extract can vary from person to person. The points below outline potential side effects that have been reported or could theoretically occur, yet they remain rare for the average user when the ingredient is correctly formulated and used as directed.
- Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to legumes or specific plant proteins
- Transient redness, stinging or itching immediately after application
- Localized swelling or hives in very sensitive skin
- Heightened irritation if applied to broken skin or layered with strong exfoliating acids or retinoids
If any of these reactions occur stop use right away and consult a qualified medical professional for personalised advice.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0–1
Anthyllis Vulneraria Extract is a lightweight, mostly water-soluble botanical concentrate that contains minimal oils or waxes. Its primary constituents are flavonoids, tannins and sugars that do not tend to block pores, so formulators classify it at the very bottom of the comedogenic scale.
Because of this low score it is considered suitable for skin that is prone to acne or congestion, provided the rest of the formula remains non-occlusive.
No data suggest it worsens blackheads or whiteheads, and it can even sit comfortably alongside oil-control or anti-blemish actives without interference.
Summary
Anthyllis Vulneraria Extract is a plant-derived skin conditioner that helps keep skin soft, hydrated and calm. Its blend of natural flavonoids and tannins supports the moisture barrier and soothes visible redness, making it a gentle companion for everyday care products from moisturizers to after-sun gels.
While respected in botanical skin care circles, it is still a niche ingredient compared with bigger names like aloe or chamomile. That relative obscurity is slowly changing as brands look for fresh yet mild plant options to stand out on the shelf.
Overall safety is high, with only rare sensitivity in people allergic to legumes. As with any new cosmetic ingredient, apply a small amount on a discreet patch of skin first to confirm personal compatibility before committing to full-face use.