Lithospermum erythrorhizon root extract

AKA: Gromwell root extract, Li root extract
Plant-Derived
Skin Conditioner
Extract
Clean
Lithospermum Erythrorhizon Root Extract is an extract of the dried roots of Lithospermum erythrorhizon, Boraginaceae
Family
Boraginaceae (Borage family)
Plant Part
Root
Lifeform
Perennial
Climate
Temperate
CAS #
223749-76-6
Form
Liquid
Functions
Skin Conditioning
A catch-all term for ingredients that improve how skin looks and feels — softer, smoother, more supple. The workhorse behind most moisturizers.
Locks in moisture
Traditional Use
Used in Traditional Chinese Medicine and Japanese herbalism for centuries to promote skin brightening and wound healing. Known as 'zicao' in Chinese medicine, the root was traditionally applied topically for eczema and to improve skin complexion.
EWG
1
CIR
Insufficient
Pregnancy
Caution
CIR Safety Findings
ewg-1
pregnancy-nursing-safe
all-shades-safe
Regulatory Status
USAunder review
EUrestricted
JAPANrestricted
CANADArestricted
Skin Types
all-skin-types, gentle
Best For
Hyperpigmentation
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Caution
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewed1 paper
⚖️Regulatory1 listing
🛡️Safety-assessed1 review
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
Verified Jun 2026
Data: Kew POWO · CosIng · EWG · CIR