Dracocephalum Moldavica Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract: What Is It, Cosmetic Uses, Benefits & Side Effects

Curious about this ingredient? In this article we're explaining exactly what it is and why it's used within cosmetic formulations.
Updated on: June 27, 2025
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We verify all information on this page using publicly available nomenclature standards from The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), the European Commission's CosIng database and documentation provided directly by ingredient manufacturers. Our analysis is based on technical data from these sources to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What Is Dracocephalum Moldavica Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract?

Dracocephalum Moldavica Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract comes from the flowers, leaves and stems of Dracocephalum moldavica, an aromatic herb in the mint family often called Moldavian balm. The plant is rich in flavonoids, rosmarinic acid and essential oils that carry a fresh, citrus-mint scent. Traditional herbalists in Eastern Europe and parts of Asia brewed its aerial parts into calming teas and fragrant rinses, which sparked interest in its soothing properties for skin.

To create the cosmetic-grade extract, freshly harvested plant material is cleaned, dried and then soaked in a solvent such as water, glycerin or a gentle alcohol blend. The solvent draws out beneficial compounds, and the mixture is filtered and concentrated before being standardized for consistent quality. The result is a fluid or powdered extract that blends easily into water-based or emulsified formulations.

You will most often see Dracocephalum Moldavica Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract in calming sheet masks, daily moisturizers, after-sun gels, lightweight anti-aging serums and sensitive skin treatments where a gentle botanical boost is welcome.

Dracocephalum Moldavica Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

The ingredient is classed as a skin-conditioning agent, meaning it helps skin feel softer, smoother and more comfortable. In practice the extract supplies antioxidants that can ease the look of irritation, supports the skin’s natural barrier with light hydration and leaves a refreshed scent that enhances the overall sensory experience of a product.

Who Can Use Dracocephalum Moldavica Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract

This botanical suits most skin types including dry, normal, combination, oily and sensitive because it is lightweight and non-greasy. Its calming profile makes it especially welcome in routines that aim to reduce visible redness. Those with a known allergy to plants in the mint family or to fragranced botanicals should approach with caution because the extract naturally contains aromatic compounds.

The ingredient is fully plant based and the usual solvents involved in extraction are also non-animal, so it is considered appropriate for vegans and vegetarians.

No specific warnings are linked to pregnancy or breastfeeding when the extract is used topically at cosmetic levels. That said, this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should show the full ingredient list of a product to their doctor for personalized guidance.

Dracocephalum Moldavica Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract is not known to make skin more sensitive to sunlight and there are no special daylight precautions beyond regular sunscreen use.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Side effects from topical Dracocephalum Moldavica Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract can differ from person to person. The following points cover potential outcomes, yet most users will not experience them when the ingredient is formulated and used as intended.

  • Mild stinging or burning on very reactive skin
  • Redness or itching linked to a mint family allergy
  • Contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to natural fragrance components
  • Dry patches if combined with strong exfoliants or high alcohol formulas

If you notice any discomfort or unusual reaction while using the extract or a product that contains it stop application and consult a healthcare professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 1 / 5 — The extract is primarily water soluble and used at low concentrations, so it does not clog pores in most formulations. It contains light aromatic oils, yet these are present in amounts too small to create a fatty film that would trap sebum and debris.

Overall this ingredient is considered suitable for those prone to acne or breakouts. If formulated in a non-greasy base it should not aggravate existing congestion.

As with any botanical, the final product’s full formula and texture matter more to pore clogging potential than the extract itself.

Summary

Dracocephalum Moldavica Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract conditions skin by supplying antioxidants that calm the look of irritation and by adding a light moisture boost that helps the surface feel softer and smoother. It also lends a fresh mint-citrus scent that can make daily application more pleasant.

Although not as famous as green tea or chamomile, this Moldavian balm extract is quietly gaining fans in soothing masks, after-sun gels and sensitive skin creams thanks to its gentle profile and clean label appeal.

The ingredient is generally safe for topical use with a low risk of side effects when properly formulated. Still, every skin is unique so it is wise to perform a patch test when trying any new product that contains this botanical.

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