Common Name(s): Pulsatilla chinensis root extract,pulsatilla chinensis root extract,pulsatilla (pasque flower) saponin/extract,anti-inflammatory anti-melanogenic active
CAS Number: N/a
DESCRIPTION
What It Does: Provides nf-kb anti-inflammatory inhibition from anemonin's michael acceptor chemistry, tyrosinase inhibitory brightening, and anti-proliferative activity for acne and comedone treatment.
Why It's Used: Pulsatilla protoanemonin (from anemonin hydrolysis) provides direct skin contact nf-kb inhibition โ the same lactonol michael acceptor pharmacophore as andrographolide but from the traditional korean and chinese pasque flower herb.
How It Works: Protoanemonin: alpha,beta-unsaturated lactone michael acceptor โ ikk-ฮฒ cys179 covalent adduct โ nf-kb anti-inflammatory. anemonin (dimer): skin lactonase โ protoanemonin release at delivery site. triterpenoid saponins: tyrosinase allosteric modulation โ melanin synthesis reduction โ brightening.
Typically Found In: Anti-inflammatory,brightening,anti-acne
TECHNICAL DETAILS
Primary Category: Active ingredient โ antioxidant
Secondary Functions: Free radical scavenging,anti-aging
Application Areas:
Facial Skincare
Body Care
Hair Care
Beard Care
Color Cosmetics (Makeup)
Dietary/Oral Supplements
Typical Concentration Range: 0.01%โ1%
SOURCING & ETHICS
Vegan Status: Yes
Halal Status: Yes
Source Notes: Plant-derived extract or synthetic.
SKIN COMPATIBILITY
Irritancy Rating: 1/5 โ very low
Comedogenicity Rating: 0/5 โ non-comedogenic
Sensitivity Concerns: Non-irritating; well-tolerated.
Safe for Sensitive Skin: Yes
SAFETY & COMPATIBILITY
Safety Profile: Excellent safety profile. ewg score: 1.
Works Well With: Vitamin c,vitamin e,ferulic acid,spf,other antioxidants
Avoid Combining With: No significant incompatibilities
SCIENTIFIC NOTE
Pulsatilla safety: protoanemonin at high concentrations is a vesicant (blister-causing contact irritant) โ cosmetic concentrations must remain below the irritation threshold while providing anti-inflammatory activity. anemonin (the stable dimer) is the preferred formulation form providing controlled protoanemonin release.
Last Verified: Cosing database,pulsatilla chinensis root extract pulsatilla anemonin anti-inflammatory brightening review
Primary Sources: 2026-03-22