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Extract LE - 1
Commentary continued........
As an enantiomer in the d-form alkannin is called shikonin where as the dl - form is shikalkin. A huge number of
carboxylic acid esters of alkannin and shikonin have been isolated in extracts of lithospermum erythrorhizon.
In colorless cell cultures of lithospermum erythrorhizon other phenolic acids were isolated, the most
predominant one being rosmarinic acid. The roots also contain cholin and other tannins. In the waxy fraction,
carnaubawax derivatives have been identified. Aqueous lithospermum erythrorhizon extracts showed a presence
of glycosides, of which the sugar part was identified as rhammnose, fructose, arabinose and galactose.
Lithospermum erythrorhizon extracts in oily and aqueous form were tested in vitro for eye and skin irritation.
Both tests showed no irritation. Aqueous and oily extracts were tested for thermo-stability at temperatures of
30°C and 60°C for six hours, no changes occurred with respect to color, clearness and absorption spectra. Color
stability was carried out at 40°C over a period of four weeks. The oily extract showed no change whatsoever and
remained bright red in color. The aqueous extract only showed a lsight sediment after four weeks with a
minimal decrease in the pH value. Oily and aqueous extracts exposed to sunlight during a six month period
remained very stable in color and appearance.
Ether extracts of lithospermum erythrorhizon have been proven to be inhibitory to growth of staphylococcus
Aureus, stphylococcus epidermis, sarcina lutea and bacillus subtilis. Ointments containing alkannin have been
successfully used in the treatment of ulcis cruris. Repeated topical application of these salves demonstrated
improved granulation and epithelisation. Its would healing properties and other functions such as antibacterial,
anti-biotic activity as well as anti - tumor activity have been wel-documented in recent scientific literature. The
combination of anti- inflammatory characteristics, anti-microbial functions, wound healing and strong coloring
properties of lithospermum erythrorhizon extract makes this product unique.
Extract LE-1 is the Butylene Glycolic solution of standardized Lithospermum Erythrorhizon Extract, which
contains no less than 0.40% naphthoquinone derivative (as shikonin). Extract LE-1 is miscible with both oil and
aqueous system. The color of Lithospermum Erythrorhizon Extract in aqueous systems varies from red to red
violet, violet, blue vilet and blue with the increase of pH value (when pH <6, it is read). In China, Lithospermum
Erythrorhizon Extract has been widely used to impart attractive coloration varying from orange to bright red.
Extract LE-1 used in facial cleansers and skin tonics have created elegant purple end products. Emulsions using
Extract LE-1 become pink and exhibit ani-inflammatory activity. Furthermore, Extract LE-1 can be employed in
various nail care and color cosmetic products. In short, the possibilities to incorporate Extract LE-1 into Cosmetic,
Personal Care and OTC products are endless, and the colored end products using Extract LE-1 have excellent light
stability and do not show sedimentation.
Formulation Guidelines:
a.)
Use in oil system: Add Extract LE-1 to the oil system at moderate temperature, homogenize to
obtain a uniform product. If possible, avoid heat as much as possible.
b.)
Use in aqueous system: Add Extract LE-1 to aqueous system at moderate temperature. Mix
until stable, homogeneous product forms. If possible, avoid heat as much as possible.
c.)
Effect of pH. When pH is 4 - 6, the color of Extract LE-1 solution is red. Weak acid such as
citric acid, should be used to adjust pH. Avoid strong acid such as hydrochloric acid. Buffer
solution is preferred to be used along with Extract LE-1 in aqueous system.
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