FISHMINT EXTRACT - NexTrac® FISHMINT L LC

INTRODUCTION

Fish mint leaf extract (Houttuynia Cordata Leaf Extract) is obtained from the leaves of Houttuynia cordata Thunb., a perennial herb belonging to the Saururaceae family. Fish mint is widely distributed across Asian countries, including Vietnam, China, Japan, South Korea, India, and Nepal. It is commonly consumed as an edible herb and used in traditional medicine.

In the traditional medicine systems of several Asian countries, fish mint leaves have been used to support the management of inflammatory conditions, boils, allergies, skin disorders, and certain immune-related conditions. The herb has traditionally been associated with heat-clearing, detoxifying, and anti-inflammatory properties.

With the growing demand for naturally derived cosmetic ingredients, fish mint extract has attracted considerable research interest due to its high content of biologically active compounds that may influence various mechanisms associated with skin health. Pharmacological and phytochemical studies have reported antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and immunomodulatory activities. These properties may help protect skin cells against environmental stressors and support the care of oily, acne-prone, and sensitive skin.

Owing to its rich bioactive composition and growing scientific evidence, fish mint extract is increasingly incorporated into skincare formulations, particularly products designed for oily, acne-prone, and sensitive skin. It is also suitable for products developed to soothe the skin, provide antioxidant protection, support acne care, and improve uneven pigmentation. Its natural origin, relatively favorable safety profile, and diverse biological activities make fish mint extract a botanical ingredient of increasing interest in modern cosmetic development.

KEY BENEFITS

Anti-Inflammatory Activity

Anti-inflammatory activity is one of the most extensively studied properties of fish mint extract. Studies have shown that the extract can modulate inflammatory responses by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory mediators such as nitric oxide (NO), PGE₂, and TNF-α. It can also reduce the expression of iNOS and COX-2 through modulation of the NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways [1].

Flavonoids and polyphenolic compounds are among the principal constituents that contribute to the regulation of immune responses and the reduction of inflammatory activity [2].

In cosmetic applications, these properties may help soothe irritated skin, reduce visible redness and discomfort, and improve the appearance of inflammation associated with acne-prone skin.

Antioxidant Activity

Fish mint extract contains significant amounts of flavonoids and phenolic compounds capable of neutralizing free radicals. These compounds may help reduce oxidative stress, which is one of the factors contributing to premature skin aging and cellular damage [2][3].

In cosmetic formulations, this activity helps protect the skin against oxidative stress associated with UV exposure, environmental pollution, and other external aggressors while supporting healthy-looking skin.

Antibacterial Activity

Fish mint extract can inhibit the growth of certain bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa [3]. This activity is believed to be associated with the presence of flavonoids, polyphenols, and other biologically active compounds.

Skin-Brightening Activity

An in vitro study using B16F10 melanoma cells demonstrated that fish mint extract could reduce melanin production without causing cytotoxicity at the concentrations evaluated. These findings suggest that the extract may have potential for use in products designed to support skin brightening and improve hyperpigmentation.

This activity is believed to be associated with the extract’s antioxidant properties and its ability to inhibit the expression of certain genes involved in melanogenesis [4].

COSMETIC APPLICATIONS

Fish mint leaf extract can be incorporated into:

• Serums
• Toners
• Facial masks
• Acne-care gels

REFERENCES

[1] Shin, S., Joo, S. S., Jeon, J. H., Park, D., Jang, M. J., Kim, T. O., Kim, H. K., Hwang, B. Y., Kim, K. Y., & Kim, Y. B. (2010). Anti-inflammatory effects of a Houttuynia cordata supercritical extract. Journal of Veterinary Science, 11(3), 273–275.

[2] Shingnaisui, K., Dey, T., Manna, P., & Kalita, J. (2018). Therapeutic potentials of Houttuynia cordata Thunb. against inflammation and oxidative stress: A review. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 220, 35–43.

[3] Phan, N. K., & Phùng, T. S. (2023). Tối ưu hóa quy trình chiết xuất và khảo sát hoạt tính kháng khuẩn, kháng oxy hóa của cây Diếp cá (Houttuynia cordata) [Optimization of the extraction process and evaluation of the antibacterial and antioxidant activities of Houttuynia cordata]. Tạp chí Khoa học Đại học Đồng Tháp, 27, 76–81.

[4] Nguyễn, H. D., Lê, Q. L., Kim, E. K., Lê, V. M., Đặng, T. Q., & Trần, T. K. L. (2016). Khảo sát hoạt tính làm trắng da của rau diếp cá (Houttuynia cordata Thunb.) trên dòng tế bào u hắc tố B16F10 ứng dụng trong mỹ phẩm [Evaluation of the skin-whitening activity of Houttuynia cordata Thunb. in B16F10 melanoma cells for cosmetic applications]. Y Học Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh, 20(2).