Verbena Officinalis 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 30, 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 Verbena Officinalis Extract?

Verbena Officinalis Extract comes from the aerial parts and roots of Verbena officinalis, an herb also known as common vervain that grows across Europe, Asia and the Americas. The plant is rich in flavonoids, iridoid glycosides, phenolic acids and a light essential oil, all of which give the extract gentle soothing and softening properties.

Vervain has been part of folk skin rituals for centuries, prized for its calming touch on stressed or tired skin. Modern cosmetic labs took note and refined the old herbal infusions into a stable extract that fits easily into today’s formulas.

To make the extract, harvested stems and roots are cleaned, dried and milled, then steeped in food grade solvents like water, glycerin or a mix of water and alcohol. The liquid is filtered, concentrated and tested so each batch meets set standards before it is blended into finished products.

You will most often spot Verbena Officinalis Extract in hydrating toners, calming masks, lightweight lotions, after-sun gels, scalp serums and anti-aging creams where a soft, fresh feel is desired.

Verbena Officinalis Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This botanical multitasker adds a skin friendly touch to many formulas through the following roles:

  • Skin Conditioning: Helps keep skin smooth and comfortable by supporting its natural moisture balance and adding a subtle soothing effect, which is especially helpful in products aimed at sensitive or easily irritated skin
  • Emollient: Softens the skin surface and reduces rough texture so creams glide on better and leave a supple after-feel

Who Can Use Verbena Officinalis Extract

Thanks to its light texture and calming profile, Verbena Officinalis Extract suits most skin types including normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive and mature skin. It adds softness without clogging pores, so even blemish-prone users usually tolerate it well. The only group that may need extra caution is anyone with a known allergy to verbena or other members of the Verbenaceae family, as cross-reactivity is possible.

The extract is entirely plant derived and typically processed with food grade solvents, making it suitable for vegans and vegetarians as long as the finished formula uses no animal-based additives.

Current research shows no specific risks for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the extract is used topically and in cosmetic amounts. Still, data is limited and hormonal changes can alter skin reactivity, so this is not medical advice. Expectant or nursing mothers should show any skincare routine to their physician for personalized guidance.

Verbena Officinalis Extract is not known to increase photosensitivity. Standard sun protection practices remain advisable, but no extra precautions are generally necessary when using products containing this botanical.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Reactions to topical Verbena Officinalis Extract differ from person to person. The points below cover potential side effects, not the typical experience. When the ingredient is formulated correctly most users notice only its soothing benefits.

  • Irritation or redness – may occur in very sensitive skin or if the formula has a high concentration of essential oil fractions
  • Allergic contact dermatitis – possible in individuals allergic to verbena or related botanicals
  • Mild stinging or warmth – trace aromatic compounds might cause transient tingling, particularly on freshly exfoliated or compromised skin
  • Eye discomfort – accidental contact with the eye area can lead to watering or burning sensations

If any adverse reaction develops stop using the product and seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0-1 / 5

Verbena Officinalis Extract is mostly composed of water-soluble plant compounds with only trace amounts of lightweight essential oil. Because it lacks heavy lipids and waxes that normally sit inside pores, it is very unlikely to block them. Formulas that carry the extract are usually fluid or gel-like, further lowering the chance of buildup.

Suitability for acne-prone skin: Generally safe to use and unlikely to trigger breakouts.

Only if the finished product pairs the extract with rich oils or occlusive agents could the overall formula inch higher on the comedogenic scale, so always check the full ingredient list.

Summary

Verbena Officinalis Extract conditions and softens skin by delivering mild flavonoids and sugars that support the moisture barrier and smooth rough patches. Its light essential oil fraction adds a subtle emollient touch for a fresh comfortable feel.

While not as famous as aloe or chamomile, this botanical is quietly popular in clean beauty toners, after-sun gels and calming masks where a feather-light soothing boost is welcome.

Topical use is considered low risk for most people with only rare reports of irritation or allergy. Still, every skin is different so it is wise to patch test any new product containing Verbena Officinalis Extract before full use.

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