28 SKIN CARE
Upcycled moringa seeds for skin protection
Bernd Walzel, Anja Herrmann, Beatrix Senti, Tamina Shahzad, Ulrike Bätz, Stefan Bänziger – Lipoid Kosmetik
ABSTRACT
Africa is a continent of rich cultural diversity and medical traditions that offers rich natural resources. Plants like the moringa tree, neem, baobab, aloe vera, or rooibos offer exciting potential for cosmetic applications. By combining traditional wisdom with modern science, innovative cosmetic concepts can be created that reflect Africa’s medical heritage while meeting today’s demand for natural and effective beauty care products. The moringa tree (Moringa oleifera) is
one great example. In traditional African medicine, every part of the tree - including its oil, leaves, and seeds - has been used to treat inflammation, wounds, pain, and skin conditions, despite limited knowledge of its underlying biochemistry. Recent research has identified moringin and its glycosylated derivative, glucomoringin, as key secondary metabolites abundant in moringa. These unique isothiocyanates, found
exclusively in Moringa oleifera, have attracted interest in cosmetics for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and protective benefits for the skin.1
PERSONAL CARE May 2025
From upcycled moringa seed cake to cosmetic actives Although the moringa tree’s oil is the primary commercial product2
, the seed cake (ca. 85%
of biomass) that is left after oil extraction is largely undervalued and of limited use despite being rich in proteins and valuable phytochemicals like moringin. To address this, Lipoid Kosmetik has created a cosmetic active from moringa seed cake, preserving and enhancing the value of these unused bioactive components. We source moringa seed cake from a
supplier with a sustainable and socially responsible supply chain, linking over 1,500 smallholder farmers in Rwanda to the global cosmetic market. This partnership supports their livelihoods through economic growth, sustainable development, and creates a positive social impact (Figure 1).
Moringin – Key component of the moringa seed extract We characterized the phytochemical profile of the moringa seed extract and identified
The moringa tree,Moringa oleifera, has been an integral part of African traditional medicine for centuries and is now recognized as a valuable source of natural compounds for skin care. Here we explore the potential of a moringa seed extract (tradename MorinGuard®) as a cosmetic active ingredient for skin protection and recovery. The extract is derived from upcycled moringa seed cake, a by-product of moringa oil production, transforming an unused natural resource into a valuable ingredient. Additionally, we partner with a supplier committed to sustainability and social responsibility, creating a positive impact by supporting over 1,500 smallholder farmers in Rwanda. In our studies, the moringa seed extract shows strong anti-inflammatory and skin protecting properties. The extract lowers key markers of inflammation and decreases the synthesis of matrix metalloproteinases in vitro. Clinical tests confirmed its effectiveness in speeding up skin recovery after microneedle treatment, with improvements in blood flow and skin barrier. When combined with Lipoid Kosmetik’s Skin Lipid Matrix® SLM (tradename SLM Eco®), the extract is even more effective. Overall, the moringa seed extract is a cosmetic ingredient that soothes, repairs, and protects challenged skin. It bridges traditional African knowledge with modern cosmetic science, supports the sustainable use of natural resources, and is ethically sourced - making it a responsible choice for skin care.
www.personalcaremagazine.com
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