Pretti5 Star Ingredient: The Goldflower Root Extract
Goldflower root extract is a traditional Chinese medicine ingredient purported to treat arthritis, respiratory infections, and even cancer.
Also known as Huang Qin, Chinese skullcap, or Baikal skullcap, goldflower root extract has been a key herb in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years. It’s famed for its antioxidant qualities, making it a key anti-aging and anti-inflammatory ingredient in East Asian skin and health care.
Photo retrieved from VCG Photo.
These antioxidant properties are the effects of baicalin and baicalein, compounds known as flavonoids that are also found in dark chocolate, citrus fruits, and some teas. These flavonoids effectively combat oxidative stress and everyday toxins: it’s no wonder, then, that goldflower is one of the 50 fundamental TCM herbs to restore balance and Qi in the body.
From afar, you might mistake its frilly purple flowers for lavender. In fact, goldflower root extract has similar restorative qualities. It can soothe anxiety and tension, and has even been shown to improve memory!
Beyond its historic medicinal qualities as a dietary supplement, goldflower root extract is also used in modern beauty products to relieve skin concerns. A powerful anti-pollution agent, it’s earned its position as a TCM skincare staple by protecting skin from pollutants, free radicals, and UV—environmental elements that can speed up aging and increase the risk of acne and irritation.
At Botanic Pretti5, we combine the power of the goldflower root with snow mushroom extract, a TCM super-ingredient, and hyaluronic acid. Check out our favorite ways to infuse your skincare routine with the magic of goldflower root!
Hydro-Power Brightening Cleanser
(HK$360)
Antioxidant Hydrating Toning Essence
(HK$480)
Advanced Hyaluronic Serum
(HK$720)
Intensive Water-Glow Moisturizer
(HK$580)
Did you know?
TCM practitioners also use the goldflower as a general remedy: in the traditional Chinese medicine Xiao Chai Hu Tang (called Sho-saiko-to in Japan and Soshihotang in South Korea), it’s used to treat a variety of conditions, ranging from fevers and the common cold to gastrointestinal and liver diseases.
Written by Fion Tse
