Skin Conditioning
CORYNANTHE YOHIMBE BARK EXTRACT
Safety score · 0–100
Caution
Derived from EU CosIng regulatory status, PubChem hazard data and published research. How we score.
About
Bark extract from the West African yohimbe tree. Its main alkaloid, yohimbine, is prohibited in EU cosmetics, so the crude extract carries a real red-flag risk.
Corynanthe yohimbe (also Pausinystalia johimbe) bark extract (CAS 85117-22-2) has historical use as an astringent, but its key alkaloid yohimbine is a potent alpha-2 adrenergic antagonist with documented cardiovascular and neurological effects. Yohimbine and yohimbine salts are listed as prohibited substances in EU Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 Annex II (entry 1005). An EFSA opinion (EFSA Journal 2013) likewise raised safety concerns. The crude bark extract is still catalogued in INCI and COSMILE Europe under the name, but because alkaloid content is not standardised, there is no way to guarantee the extract is yohimbine-free. Under a precautionary reading of EU cosmetic law, use in finished EU cosmetics is problematic unless alkaloids are proven absent. Red tier.
Function
Skin benefits
- Traditional astringent and skin conditioning use
- Polyphenol content
Known concerns
- Contains yohimbine alkaloid — yohimbine and its salts are prohibited in EU cosmetics (Regulation 1223/2009 Annex II entry 1005)
- Cardiovascular and neurological activity of yohimbine
- Composition variability means uncontrolled alkaloid load
- Banned as a supplement in multiple jurisdictions
References
EU CosIng database
European Commission cosmetic ingredient registry — regulatory status, restrictions, authorised functions.
Related skin conditionings
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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.