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Peer-reviewed reference cited in Deep Research evidence brief.
Sophora Flavescens Root Extract
Unlock multi-functional botanical efficacy with Formulate Labs' Sophora Flavescens Root Extract, a standard or concentrated hydroglycerin stock rich in key actives like quinolizidine alkaloids and prenylated flavonoids, known by trade names such as Sophora and Ku Shen.
Sophora flavescens root
Derived from the root of Sophora flavescens, known traditionally as Ku Shen or simply Sophora, Formulate Labs offers the INCI-named Sophora Flavescens Root Extract, not supplier-specific SKUs. This extract is characterized by a high concentration of active compounds including quinolizidine alkaloids and prenylated flavonoids, responsible for its multi-functional cosmetic activity.
Dual mechanism: Sophora Flavescens Root Extract provides targeted efficacy through several distinct biochemical pathways. Its bioactive alkaloids and flavonoids directly inhibit key signaling pathways to help modulate the skin's response to irritants and reduce the appearance of redness. This anti-inflammatory action is complemented by its antioxidant properties, which help protect the skin from environmental stressors. Cosmetically, it supports a clear and even-toned complexion as its prenylated flavonoids function as tyrosinase inhibitors to help manage the appearance of hyperpigmentation, while its alkaloid content provides broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties that disrupt the cellular integrity of microorganisms like Cutibacterium acnes and Staphylococcus aureus.
Use levels: For Formulate Labs' standard or concentrated hydroglycerin stock, clinically observed efficacy of Sophora Flavescens Root Extract begins when the final formulation contains 0.05% of the extract. This corresponds to adding 1% of our Standard stock to a formulation. Maximum safe historical usage of the extract is documented up to 2.126% in leave-on applications and up to 8.33% in rinse-off products. Formulators should always conduct their own safety and stability testing.
Market context: Sophora Flavescens Root Extract is positioned in the B2B market as a premium, multi-functional botanical 'hero' ingredient. It serves as a clean-label, plant-derived alternative to synthetic biocides and soothing agents, meeting consumer demand for eco-certified solutions in acne management and sensitive skin care. Its broad-spectrum activity allows it to unify claims across multiple product categories, including anti-aging, skin soothing, and hair cycle support. The ingredient is further differentiated by an emphasis on supply-chain transparency, including sustainable, pesticide-free harvesting and standardized active constituent profiles that satisfy the rigorous quality requirements of high-end brands.
We ship standard or concentrated extract stock with selectable preservation - ready to meter into finished formulas at the use rates in the formulation guide below.*
Trade names (Sophora, Ku Shen) are distinct from Formulate Labs' INCI-compliant Sophora Flavescens Root Extract.
Every lot is produced to order in our AI-powered robotic factory. Nothing sits on a warehouse shelf going stale - you get a date-of-manufacture-fresh batch every time.
* Structure/function statements based on published cosmetic in-vitro studies. Not evaluated for, and not intended to, diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Sophora Flavescens Root Extract is documented in cosmetic peptide/protein literature. These are independent, third-party papers we link for formulators evaluating mechanism, tolerability, and published panel data. We did not conduct this research and do not guarantee replication in your finished formula.
These citations are provided for informational and formulation-research purposes only. Study designs, concentrations, vehicle systems, and populations vary and may not match the extract stocks on this page. Published results do not constitute FDA or EU cosmetic claim substantiation for your brand. Always review the primary literature and consult your regulatory counsel before making structure/function statements on finished products.
Bulk composition at the selected Sophora Flavescens Root Extract loading. Base carrier components scale proportionally when preservative is added; extract stays at the selected loading. Updates dynamically when you change base or preservation above. Full CAS disclosure is on the SDS/TDS for the selected variant (FL-SFR-W1-MBS4-5PCT-001).
SDS + TDS are issued per selected recipe. Links swap when you change selections above. A sample COA shows the standard extract QC panel (pH, organoleptic, TAMC/TYMC). Lot-specific COAs ship with every order.
We cook the raw botanical powder into the selected carrier. The botanical carries polar phenolics, flavonoid glycosides, and related extractable fractions. Those markers support antioxidant and skin-conditioning cosmetic stories. This is not a solvent isolate or a standardized marker extract. Lot identity appears on the COA and TDS.
This is a ready-to-use cosmetic extract stock, not a finished consumer product and not a standardized marker isolate. We cook the raw botanical powder into the selected hydroglycerin or oil carrier. Aqueous lots are released on pH, organoleptic, TAMC, and TYMC (total counts only). Oil macerates are released on organoleptic only. A sample COA is on this page; the lot-specific COA ships with the order.
Download sample Certificate of AnalysisStatements contained on this page (including any marked with *) have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. This product is a cosmetic raw material and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.