What Is Nasturtium Officinale Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract?
Nasturtium Officinale Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract comes from watercress, an aquatic plant in the mustard family that grows in clean, slow-moving streams. The extract is taken from the plant’s flowers, leaves and stems, then concentrated for use in skin care. Watercress is naturally rich in vitamins A and C as well as minerals like calcium and iron. It also contains phenolic compounds that act as mild antioxidants.
People have eaten watercress for centuries for its peppery taste and its fresh scent. In the last few decades formulators noticed these same qualities could lift the feel of creams and lotions, so the plant found a new role in cosmetics. To make the extract companies clean and chop the fresh plant parts, soak them in a food-grade solvent such as water or glycerin, then filter and purify the liquid. The finished extract is usually a light green or brown fluid that blends easily with other ingredients.
You will spot Nasturtium Officinale Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract in facial masks, daily moisturizers, lightweight serums, after-sun gels and some anti-aging blends. Brands add it for its pleasant scent and its skin-softening touch, especially in products aimed at normal to oily skin types.
Nasturtium Officinale Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This plant extract offers two main advantages in beauty formulas
- Perfuming: The natural, fresh aroma of watercress helps mask raw ingredient odors and adds a clean spa-like scent to the final product without synthetic fragrance
- Skin conditioning: Its mix of vitamins and gentle antioxidants supports a smooth, hydrated feel, helping the skin surface stay soft and comfortable
Who Can Use Nasturtium Officinale Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract
This extract is generally suited for normal, combination and oily skin thanks to its light texture and refreshing feel. Dry skin can still benefit but may need a richer moisturizer alongside it. Sensitive skin users usually tolerate it well because it has low fragrance strength and a mild antioxidant profile, though anyone with a known watercress allergy should avoid it.
The ingredient is completely plant derived, so it fits vegan and vegetarian lifestyles without issue. It is not sourced from or tested on animals by reputable suppliers that follow modern cosmetic standards.
Current data shows no specific concerns for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the extract is used in typical topical amounts, but this is not medical advice. If you are expecting or nursing check with your doctor before adding new products to your routine just to be safe.
Nasturtium Officinale Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract has no link to photosensitivity, meaning it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. As always apply a daily sunscreen since other ingredients or treatments might increase UV sensitivity.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects from topical use of Nasturtium Officinale Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract vary from person to person. The following points list potential reactions, though they are uncommon when the ingredient is properly formulated and used as directed.
- Skin irritation such as mild redness or itching
- Contact dermatitis in individuals allergic to plants in the mustard family
- Stinging sensation on broken or highly compromised skin
- Eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
If any of these reactions occur stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist or worsen.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 out of 5. Nasturtium Officinale Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract is mostly water based with a tiny fraction of plant compounds and very little oil, so it is unlikely to clog pores. Its light texture absorbs quickly and does not leave a greasy film, making it a low-risk addition even in richer formulas. Because of this low score it is generally suitable for people who are prone to acne or frequent breakouts. As with any ingredient the final product’s overall formula matters most; heavy waxes or butters paired with the extract could still trigger congestion.
Summary
Nasturtium Officinale Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract brings a clean herbal scent and a gentle skin conditioning boost to creams, gels and serums. The vitamins and mild antioxidants in watercress help soften the surface of the skin while its fresh aroma masks less pleasant base odors. You will not see it headlining many marketing campaigns, but it appears quietly in a fair number of day lotions, masks and after-sun products where it plays a supporting role.
Overall safety data is good with only rare reports of irritation in people sensitive to mustard family plants. Standard cosmetic use levels are considered safe for all skin types. As with any new product it is wise to patch test first just to be sure your skin agrees with the complete formula.