AMMI MAJUS EXTRACT
Commonly Found In
Overview
Ammi majus extract is derived from Bishop's weed (Ammi majus), a plant in the Apiaceae family. It contains furanocoumarins including psoralen and bergapten, which are potent photosensitizers. The extract is banned in EU and UK cosmetics (Annex II/35) due to the risk of severe phototoxic and photoallergic reactions when the treated skin is exposed to UV light. Historical use was in vitiligo and hyperpigmentation treatments.
Also known as: Bishop's weed extract, Ammi majus fruit extract, Ammi majus seed extract
Key Benefits
In controlled pharmaceutical settings, psoralens from Ammi majus may help with vitiligo and psoriasis via PUVA therapy. However, clinical evidence for safe cosmetic benefit is absent, and the phototoxic risk is severe and well-documented.
Supporting Research
- β’ EU Annex II/35: Banned in EU cosmetics due to furanocoumarin (psoralen) content and phototoxicity risk
- β’ Stern RS (2007): Review of PUVA therapy risks including phototoxicity, photocarcinogenicity, and skin aging acceleration
Skin Compatibility Ratings
Comedogenic Rating
Non-comedogenic; plant extract used primarily for its phototoxic (PUVA-like) properties in medical contexts.
Source: Industry data; clinical use data
Irritancy Rating
Severe phototoxic/photoallergic potential due to furanocoumarin (psoralen) content; can cause severe burns, blistering, and hyperpigmentation on UV exposure. Banned in EU/UK cosmetics.
Source: EU regulatory ban; published phototoxicity literature
Typical Use Concentration
Range
Not established for cosmetic use
Optimal
Not applicable
Banned in EU/UK. Rarely used in modern cosmetics globally due to severe phototoxicity risk.
Works Well With / Avoid
Avoid Combining
Banned in EU/UK. Contains furanocoumarins (psoralen, bergapten). Severe phototoxic risk; avoid any UV exposure when used. Not for cosmetic use in EU/UK; pharmaceutical PUVA only under strict medical supervision.
Commonly Found In
Global Regulation Summary
Overview of current status across major international markets.
Detailed Regional Status
| Region | Status | Max Conc. | Conditions | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πͺπΊ EU | Banned | - | - | Official β |
| πΊπΈ USA | Allowed | - | - | Official β |
| π―π΅ Japan | Allowed | - | - | Official β |
| π°π· Korea | Unknown | - | - | Official β |
| π¬π§ UK | Banned | - | Follows EU regulations (II/35) | Official β |
π Why Regulations Differ
EU/UK ban (Annex II/35) based on furanocoumarin content causing phototoxicity and photocarcinogenicity risk. Japan and US permit it but it is rarely used in practice. Psoralen-containing plants are subject to precautionary restrictions in many regulatory frameworks.
Regulation Analysis
Regional Agreement
Banned in EU, UK but allowed in USA, Japan.
Category Comparison
There are 389 ingredients in the SKIN CONDITIONING category. 97% are banned in at least one major market.
Strictness Ranking
πΏ Natural Sources
Extracted from Ammi majus (Bishop's weed or false Queen Anne's lace), a flowering plant in the Apiaceae family native to the Mediterranean and North Africa.
π How It's Made
Typically extracted from seeds or whole plant using alcohol or aqueous solvents, yielding furocoumarins such as psoralen and bergapten.
π Uses in Cosmetics
Historically used in skin-lightening and vitiligo treatments. Banned in EU/UK (Annex II/35) due to severe sun-sensitivity reactions and skin sensitization from light-sensitive compounds content. Still allowed in US and Japan but rarely used due to safety concerns.
π¬ Other Applications
Pharmaceutical PUVA therapy (Psoralen + UVA) for severe psoriasis and vitiligo under strict medical supervision.
π‘ Fun Facts
- β’ Contains psoralens which can cause severe burns and blistering when skin is exposed to sunlight - this sun-sensitivity reaction led to its EU ban
- β’ Ancient Egyptians used Ammi majus for vitiligo treatment over 3,000 years ago, making it one of the oldest documented dermatological treatments
Related Skin Concerns
Data Sources
- β’ EU Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009 Annex II entry 35
- β’ Stern RS (2007) β PUVA therapy review
- β’ Pathak MA (1986) β Furanocoumarins and phototoxicity review
Last data verification: 2026-04-16
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Learn More
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is AMMI MAJUS EXTRACT banned in the EU but allowed in the US?
The EU follows a precautionary principle, banning AMMI MAJUS EXTRACT under II/35 due to potential safety concerns. The US FDA has not found sufficient evidence to prohibit its use, allowing it under different safety assessment standards. This reflects differing regulatory philosophies between the two regions.
Why is AMMI MAJUS EXTRACT banned in the EU but allowed in Japan?
The EU prohibits AMMI MAJUS EXTRACT (II/35) based on their strict safety criteria. Japan's Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW) has evaluated the ingredient and permits its use, potentially with different safety data or usage conditions.
What is AMMI MAJUS EXTRACT used for in cosmetics?
AMMI MAJUS EXTRACT is primarily used for skin conditioning in cosmetic products. The ingredient is commonly found in moisturizers, lotions, and creams.
Which countries regulate AMMI MAJUS EXTRACT?
AMMI MAJUS EXTRACT is banned in EU, UK. The ingredient is freely allowed in JP, US.
Are there alternatives to AMMI MAJUS EXTRACT?
Due to regulatory restrictions on AMMI MAJUS EXTRACT, cosmetic manufacturers often use alternative ingredients with similar functions. For skin conditioning, alternatives may include other approved ingredients in the same category. Consult product labels for specific formulations, and look for products compliant with your region's regulations.
Disclaimer
The information on this website is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. While we strive for accuracy based on official government databases, cosmetic regulations change frequently. Always consult with a qualified professional or refer to the latest official regulatory documents for compliance. We are not responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided here.