Astringent
ACACIA CATECHU LEAF/WOOD POWDER
Safety score · 0–100
Fine
Derived from EU CosIng regulatory status, PubChem hazard data and published research. How we score.
About
Catechu (khair) heartwood and leaf powder — a tannin-rich traditional Ayurvedic astringent botanical.
Acacia catechu leaf/wood powder (CAS 8001-76-1) is milled from catechu tree heartwood and/or leaf. It is extremely rich in catechins, catechutannic acid, and other tannins (sometimes over 40%), giving strong astringent and antioxidant activity. EU CosIng lists it for skin-conditioning and astringent functions. No Annex II/III restrictions. No adverse CIR findings. Long Ayurvedic use supports general tolerance; however tannins can dry the skin and brown pigment readily transfers to formulations, so use levels are modest. Limited modern cosmetic-specific clinical data.
Skin benefits
- High catechin and tannin content — astringent and antioxidant
- Traditional Ayurvedic skin use
- Mild antimicrobial activity
Known concerns
- Tannins can be drying/astringent
- Brown pigment transfers to formulas
- Limited modern cosmetic safety dossier
References
EU CosIng database
European Commission cosmetic ingredient registry — regulatory status, restrictions, authorised functions.
Related astringents
Check your shelf
Find ACACIA CATECHU LEAF/WOOD POWDER in your products.
Scan any cosmetic product with LuxSense to see if it contains ACACIA CATECHU LEAF/WOOD POWDER and get a full ingredient breakdown with safety scores.
This profile is for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Regulatory status and scientific understanding evolve — always read the physical product label and consult a healthcare professional for personal concerns.