Arbutin occurs naturally in plants. The substance is also found in synthetic form in cosmetic products. You can find out here why the latter is problematic.
Arbutin is as secondary plant substance contained in the leaves and fruits of various plants. It acts as a natural glycoside and protects the plants from predators. In cosmetics, arbutin is found in so-called bleaching creams, which are intended to lighten the skin. However, the substance can be harmful to the body.
Arbutin is found in these plants
Arbutin is particularly found in heather and rose plants. For example, it is found in the following plant species:
- cranberries
- strawberries
- blueberries
- Damiana
- wheat germ
- more ordinary snowball
- marjoram
- pears and pear leaves
If we consume arbutin through foods such as berries or pears, these small amounts are not a problem for our body. We then excrete the substance in the urine.
Arbutin in medicine and cosmetics
(Photo: CC0 / Pixabay / rmadison)
Arbutin develops a disinfecting effect, which can be of particular use in the medical field. So are high in arbutin bearberry leaves for example an effective remedy bladder infections, bacterial urinary tract infections or kidney problems. You can find these and other arbutin preparations in the form of tea, as well as drops or tablets.
The cosmetics industry uses arbutin or beta-arbutin for skin lightening agents. The phytochemical has a bleaching effect and is said to help lighten pigments and pimple scars. You can find it as an ingredient under the names arbutin, beta-arbutin or arbutinum. However, arbutin is not without problems: if beta-arbutin seeps into the skin cells, it can split into the two substances D-glucose and hydroquinone. Hydroquinone is suspected of being carcinogenic. The Federal Institute for Risk Assessment therefore regards the use of beta-arbutin in cosmetics as a health risk. For this reason, beta-arbutin is banned as an ingredient in cosmetic products in Europe.
Also orally as medical device If taken, arbutin breaks down in the body and, in the form of hydroquinone, in excessive amounts can potentially promote the formation of cancer cells. Therefore, the duration and regularity of use is limited. However, arbutin is approved as a medicinal product in Europe. Therefore, seek medical advice before starting therapy and follow the instructions on the package insert. Pregnant and breastfeeding women and children under the age of 12 should generally not take Arbutin.
Read more on Techzle.com:
- Phytoestrogens: How the plant substances affect your body
- Local medicinal plants: the strongest plants and their effects
- Flavonoids: properties, effects and where the plant substances are