This paper outlines the investigation of multi cosmetic uses related to a patented cosmetic ingredient, INCI Name: Shikimic Acid. It is a pure product of vegetable origin, derived from Illicium verum (star anise). Its efficacy was mainly demonstrated in deodorisation applications. However, it is also indicated for its anti-acne, anti-dandruff, and exfoliating activity.
Shikimic acid is particularly suitable for applications and formulations wherein enzymatic and bacterial inhibition is desired, to reduce or eliminate human body odours.
Shikimic acid is a pure product found in plants (Fig. 1). The name derives from a Japanese name shikimi (flower) of Illicium verum, from which the acid is obtained. It is a key biosynthetic intermediate in the biochemical pathway from phosphoenolpyruvic acid to tyrosine, and a biosynthetic precursor of many alkaloids, aromatic amino acids (phenylalanine, tiroxine, triptophane) and flavonoids.
In the pharmaceutical industry, shikimic acid is used as an intermediate to obtain an antiviral compound. In literature it has been poorly described related to its efficacy.1–3 However, in other reviews it has been described to have an evident role in the biosynthesis of vitamin K, as protrombin activator, and as a mild antiinflammatory and antalgic agent for its inhibitor effect on arachidonic acid.4,5
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