Peucedanum Graveolens 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: July 1, 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 Peucedanum Graveolens Extract?

Peucedanum Graveolens Extract comes from the common dill plant, known to botanists as Peucedanum graveolens or Anethum graveolens. The green parts of the herb are rich in light aromatic oils such as carvone and limonene as well as small amounts of flavonoids and minerals. Dill has a long history in the kitchen and in folk skin care where people used fresh leaves and seeds for their calming scent and cooling touch. Modern cosmetic labs capture these qualities by soaking the dried plant in a food grade solvent or by using gentle super-critical CO2 extraction. The liquid is then filtered and concentrated until only the active plant matter remains. You will most often spot this extract in toners, face mists, after shave balms, lightweight moisturizers and scalp or beard tonics that aim to leave skin or hair feeling fresh and awake.

Peucedanum Graveolens Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This extract is listed as a tonic ingredient in cosmetic formulas, meaning it helps perk up tired skin and hair. By supporting microcirculation it can give a healthy looking flush, help skin feel more elastic and make the scalp feel cleaner and livelier after cleansing.

Who Can Use Peucedanum Graveolens Extract

Because it is light non-greasy and mainly water soluble, Peucedanum Graveolens Extract tends to suit most skin types including dry, normal, oily and combination skin. The cooling tonic feel can even be pleasant for sensitive skin, though people with known allergies to dill, celery or other Umbelliferae plants should proceed carefully since the extract may trigger a similar reaction.

The ingredient is fully plant derived so it aligns with vegan and vegetarian preferences. No animal byproducts are used during harvesting or extraction.

There is no specific evidence that the extract poses a risk for pregnant or breastfeeding women when used topically in standard cosmetic amounts. Still, research during pregnancy is limited and skin can be more reactive at that time, so this information is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should ask a doctor before adding new skincare.

Dill can contain small amounts of naturally occurring furanocoumarins that may raise sun sensitivity, but the concentrations left in finished products are usually too low to matter. If a formula combines the extract with citrus oils or other photosensitizers, daytime sunscreen becomes more important.

As the extract is lightweight and non-occlusive it is generally considered non-comedogenic and does not clog pores.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Responses to topical Peucedanum Graveolens Extract vary from person to person. The points below cover potential issues, though most users will not experience them when the ingredient is properly formulated and used as directed.

  • Allergic contact dermatitis – itching, hives or rash in individuals sensitive to dill, celery or related plants
  • Skin irritation – temporary redness, tingling or mild burning on very reactive or compromised skin
  • Photosensitivity – rare heightened sun reaction if the extract contains higher than usual furanocoumarin levels
  • Interaction with potent actives – using it alongside strong exfoliating acids or retinoids may amplify overall irritation for some users

If you notice persistent discomfort, discoloration or any of the reactions listed above stop using the product and seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0/5. Peucedanum Graveolens Extract is mostly composed of water-soluble plant compounds with only trace amounts of oil so it does not create a film that can trap dead cells or sebum. Its quick-absorbing tonic character means pores stay clear and comfortable. This makes the extract a safe choice for people who are prone to acne or frequent breakouts. If a finished formula pairs the extract with heavy oils or waxes the overall product could still clog pores but the extract itself is not the culprit.

Summary

Peucedanum Graveolens Extract works as a mild botanical tonic that refreshes skin and scalp by supporting healthy surface circulation which can translate to a livelier complexion and a cleaner feel. While it is not a headline act like vitamin C or retinol it shows up quietly in toners mists and light lotions because formulators value its fresh scent and crowd-friendly profile. Overall safety is high with allergy risk limited to those already sensitive to dill or related plants. Side effects are rare and usually mild. As with any new cosmetic ingredient patch test first to make sure your skin agrees before applying more broadly.

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