Madder ( Rubia cordifolia ) is a perennial vine belonging to the Rubiaceae family, Rubia genus, and is found throughout Asia, including India, China, and Japan. Its underground roots and rhizomes have long been used as a source of red dye, and in traditional medicine it has been considered an important herbal medicine for maintaining blood flow and skin condition.
In Ayurveda and traditional Chinese medicine, it has been used for a wide range of purposes, including regulating internal circulation, relieving inflammation, treating skin problems, and maintaining a balanced physical condition in women. It has a particularly long history of use as an ingredient related to "blood circulation."
In terms of ingredients, it has been reported to contain anthraquinones (purpurin, munidine, ruberitic acid, etc.) , naphthoquinones , iridoid glycosides , flavonoids , tannins , etc. Based on these ingredients, basic research and some pharmacological studies have suggested that it may have anti-inflammatory , antioxidant , antibacterial , blood flow support , immune regulation , and liver function support effects.
In the field of skin care, its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties suggest its potential to reduce skin damage caused by external stimuli such as UV rays and friction, improve skin clarity and even skin tone, and maintain a healthy skin turnover environment. Its blood flow support is also expected to help reduce dullness and stabilize skin condition.
Characteristics of Akane
- Scientific name: Rubia cordifolia
- Classification: Rubiaceae (Rubiaceae)
- Other names: Indian madder, Manjistha (traditional name)
- Appearance: A perennial plant with a vine-like, slender stem and reddish roots underground.
- Distribution: Throughout Asia
- Parts used: Mainly roots and rhizomes
Expected effects
- Anti-inflammatory effects: It has been suggested that it may contribute to reducing inflammatory responses by regulating inflammatory mediators.
- Antioxidant effect: It has been suggested that it may contribute to reducing oxidative stress and protecting cells.
- Antibacterial effect: It has been reported to have growth inhibitory activity against some bacteria and fungi.
- Supports blood flow and circulation: It has been suggested that maintaining microcirculation may contribute to maintaining the balance of circulation within the body.
- Maintains skin condition: It has been suggested that it may contribute to reducing roughness, redness, and dullness of the skin, as well as maintaining its clarity.
- Supports female condition: It has been suggested that it may contribute to maintaining menstrual rhythm and physical balance.
- Liver function support: It has been suggested that it may contribute to detoxification-related functions and maintaining the balance of liver indicators.
- Immunomodulatory support effect: It has been suggested that it may contribute to maintaining the body's defense balance.
