Harungana Madagascariensis 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 Harungana Madagascariensis Extract?

Harungana Madagascariensis Extract comes from the leaves and sometimes the bark of the Harungana madagascariensis tree, a plant native to Madagascar and parts of Africa in the Guttiferae family. The raw plant material is rich in natural compounds like flavonoids, xanthones and tannins that are known for their calming and protective qualities on skin.

People in Madagascar have long applied crushed Harungana leaves to help soothe cuts or irritated skin. As interest in botanical ingredients grew, cosmetic chemists looked at this tradition and began investigating the plant for skin care. Modern extraction uses dried plant parts that are soaked in a mix of water, glycerin or gentle alcohol. The liquid is then filtered and concentrated, leaving a brown-orange solution that blends well into creams and serums.

Today you will spot Harungana Madagascariensis Extract in anti aging serums, day and night creams, firming treatments, sheet masks, eye creams and soothing body lotions where it supports softer smoother skin.

Harungana Madagascariensis Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This botanical is prized for one main job in skin care formulas.

Skin Conditioning: Harungana Madagascariensis Extract helps skin feel softer and more comfortable while supporting a healthy look. Its natural antioxidants can shield skin from daily stress, the flavonoids help calm redness and the extract as a whole adds a touch of moisture that leaves the surface smooth and supple.

Who Can Use Harungana Madagascariensis Extract

Thanks to its gentle skin conditioning nature, Harungana Madagascariensis Extract is generally suitable for normal, dry, combination and sensitive skin. Oily or acne-prone skin can also tolerate it well because the extract is lightweight and does not leave a greasy film, though individuals who react easily to botanical ingredients should monitor how their skin responds.

The extract is plant derived with no animal by-products so it fits easily into vegan and vegetarian lifestyles. Most formulas that feature it also avoid animal testing, but always check the finished product’s cruelty-free status if this is a priority.

No specific warnings have been issued for pregnant or breastfeeding women regarding topical Harungana Madagascariensis Extract. Still, this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should show the full ingredient list of any skin care product to a qualified healthcare provider before use just to be safe.

The ingredient is not known to cause photosensitivity and can be used morning or night. Regular daytime sunscreen use is still recommended for overall skin health.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Side effects from topical Harungana Madagascariensis Extract differ between individuals. The points below outline potential reactions yet they remain uncommon when the ingredient is included at safe cosmetic levels.

  • Mild redness or stinging on very sensitive skin
  • Itching or burning if the user has an undiscovered plant allergy
  • Localized dryness or flaking when layered with multiple exfoliating actives
  • Temporary orange-brown staining on light fabrics if the product is not fully absorbed before dressing

If any discomfort or worsening irritation occurs stop using the product and seek advice from a medical professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 1/5

Harungana Madagascariensis Extract is obtained mainly through water or glycerin-based extraction so it contains minimal oils or heavy waxes that could clog pores. The phytonutrients it delivers are lightweight and generally sit on the skin’s surface without blocking sebaceous canals which is why it earns a low score of 1. This means it is unlikely to trigger blackheads or whiteheads in most people.

Because of this low rating the extract is usually suitable for those prone to acne or breakouts.

No special considerations regarding pore blockage have been flagged in the scientific or product safety literature but keep in mind that final formulas vary. A cream packed with heavy butters could still feel greasy even if the plant extract itself is non-comedogenic.

Summary

Harungana Madagascariensis Extract works chiefly as a skin conditioning agent offering antioxidant support soothing benefits and a light moisturizing touch. It delivers flavonoids and xanthones that help calm redness fight surface free radicals and leave skin feeling soft and comfortable.

While not yet a superstar like vitamin C or retinol this Madagascan botanical is slowly gaining attention in clean beauty circles and is popping up in more anti aging serums and calming creams each year.

Topically the ingredient has a solid safety profile with only rare reports of mild irritation. Still every skin is unique so it is wise to patch test any new product that contains Harungana Madagascariensis Extract before applying it to larger areas of the face or body.

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