KALANCHOE DAIGREMONTIANA LEAF EXTRACT
Humectant
Moderate
About KALANCHOE DAIGREMONTIANA LEAF EXTRACT
Mother-of-thousands leaf extract — a succulent with moisturising properties, but contains bufadienolides which are toxic compounds requiring careful processing.
Detailed Analysis
Kalanchoe daigremontiana (mother-of-thousands) is a succulent plant in the Crassulaceae family, native to Madagascar. The leaf extract contains bufadienolides (daigremontianin, bersaldegenin), flavonoids, and polysaccharides. Bufadienolides are cardiac glycosides with cytotoxic properties — they are toxic when ingested and may have irritant potential topically. The mucilaginous content provides humectant properties. Listed in CosIng as a humectant. Despite traditional topical use for wound healing in folk medicine, the bufadienolide content raises safety concerns. The score reflects the balance between humectant benefit and potential toxicity.
What It Does
Skin Benefits
- ✓ Humectant — moisturises and hydrates skin
- ✓ Traditional wound-healing applications
- ✓ Anti-inflammatory properties from flavonoid content
Known Concerns
- ⚠ Contains bufadienolides — cardiac glycosides with cytotoxic potential
- ⚠ Toxic if ingested — several poisoning cases in livestock documented
- ⚠ Limited cosmetic safety data for topical use
- ⚠ Requires careful extraction to minimise toxic compound content
Safety Score
Moderate
Based on EU regulatory data, published safety research, and ingredient function analysis.
References
EU CosIng Database
European Commission cosmetic ingredient registry
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Download LuxSenseThis information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for skin concerns or allergies.