Chelidonium Majus Extract

What is Chelidonium Majus Extract?

Chelidonium majus extract is derived from the aerial parts of the greater celandine plant (Chelidonium majus L.), a perennial herb in the Papaveraceae family native to Europe, Asia, and North America. This flowering plant thrives in temperate regions and has been utilized in traditional herbal practices. In cosmetics, it appears mainly in shampoos and scalp treatments, where it functions through its rich profile of bioactive compounds, including isoquinoline alkaloids like chelidonine and sanguinarine, along with flavonoids and phenolic acids. These components provide antimicrobial properties and support skin conditioning, helping to balance the scalp environment by targeting microbial activity and gently exfoliating dead cells. Extracts are typically prepared via water or alcohol solvent methods to concentrate these actives for stable incorporation into rinse-off formulations.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 1 View on EWG →

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Antidandruff agent
Helps reduce visible flaking and scalp discomfort by controlling the scalp environment (often via antifungal or keratolytic action) in shampoos and scalp treatments.

Benefits

Supports scalp environment balance to minimize visible flaking.

Promotes a comfortable scalp sensation in hair care routines.

Offers natural conditioning effects from plant-derived compounds.

Who It's For

A quick guide for who this ingredient may suit (and who should be cautious).

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
Individuals experiencing mild scalp flaking.
Those with known allergies to Papaveraceae family plants.
Users preferring botanical ingredients in shampoos.
Individuals sensitive to alkaloid-containing botanicals.
People seeking antimicrobial support for scalp care.
People with broken or irritated scalp skin.

Safety Notes

  • Rated low hazard by safety assessments for cosmetic use.
  • Non-comedogenic, suitable for routine hair products.

Frequently Asked Questions about Chelidonium Majus Extract

What plant provides Chelidonium majus extract?

It comes from the greater celandine (Chelidonium majus), a herb in the poppy family.

Where is it commonly used in cosmetics?

Primarily in shampoos and scalp treatments as an antidandruff ingredient.

Is it safe for most users?

Evaluations show low hazard potential in formulated products.