Skin Conditioning
DAPHNE GNIDIUM LEAF EXTRACT
Safety score · 0–100
Caution
Derived from EU CosIng regulatory status, PubChem hazard data and published research. How we score.
Daphne gnidium (flax-leaved daphne) leaf extract. The plant contains irritant and possibly tumour-promoting diterpenes — not recommended for routine cosmetic use without specific purification.
Daphne gnidium (flax-leaved daphne) leaf extract is derived from a Mediterranean shrub historically used in folk medicine as a counter-irritant and purgative. The plant contains daphnane- and tigliane-type diterpene orthoesters (e.g. gnidilatin, mezerein) that are intensely irritant to skin and mucous membranes and have documented tumour-promoting activity in mouse skin models. Preparations of Daphne species have caused severe blistering, contact dermatitis and systemic toxicity in both humans and livestock. While no specific EU Annex II listing for D. gnidium is in force, regulatory guidance strongly disfavours unpurified Daphne-genus extracts in cosmetics. Supplier-specific purified fractions may be safer, but public data does not reliably distinguish them.
Function
Skin benefits
- Traditional medicinal heritage
- Some antioxidant fractions
Known concerns
- Daphnane diterpenes — severe skin irritation
- Tumour-promoting activity in mouse-skin models
- Historic toxicity reports
- Regulatory concern 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, so always read the physical product label and consult a healthcare professional for personal concerns.