ILLICIUM VERUM LEAF OIL
Conditioning Agent
Caution
CAS Number: 84650-59-9
About ILLICIUM VERUM LEAF OIL
Star anise leaf oil containing safrole and phenylpropanoids with potential hepatotoxic and carcinogenic concerns at high doses; closely monitored by EU health authorities in food and cosmetic contexts.
Detailed Analysis
Illicium verum (star anise) leaf oil contains anethole, foeniculin, and notably safrole as a constituent. Safrole is classified as a suspected carcinogen (IARC Group 2B) and is listed in EU CosIng with restrictions. While the seed oil is more commonly evaluated, leaf oil similarly contains safrole and related compounds. The EU SCCS has flagged safrole-containing materials for concern in cosmetic products. This oil is not in EU Annex II but is subject to restriction guidance. The restriction flag in the source data appears to reference Montreal Protocol ozone-depleting substances incorrectly; the real concern is safrole and its carcinogenic potential.
What It Does
Skin Benefits
- ✓ Contains antimicrobial anethole
- ✓ Traditional use as a fragrance material
Known Concerns
- ⚠ Contains safrole — EU CosIng monitored substance with carcinogenic concern (IARC 2B)
- ⚠ Potential hepatotoxicity at high doses
- ⚠ Not approved in EU CosIng without specific purification requirements
Safety Score
Caution
Based on EU regulatory data, published safety research, and ingredient function analysis.
References
EU CosIng Database
European Commission cosmetic ingredient registry
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