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Ginseng Extract
At ORY®, we believe you should know what’s in your products and why. This page lists the published research behind what we say about ginseng extract. Each section starts with our claim, then tells you how well the research supports it, then lists the sources so you can read them yourself.
How to read this page Supported — backed by peer-reviewed research or official safety reviews. Supported, with caveats — the research points this way, but mostly from laboratory or animal studies, or at different strengths than ORY® uses. Limited evidence — little or no published research yet. We say so openly. |
1. General Description and Role
Claim: Ginseng extract comes from the root of Asian ginseng (Panax ginseng) or American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius). Its key compounds are ginsenosides. In ORY® products, it provides antioxidant support and helps skin look firmer, smoother, and revitalized. |
Verification: Supported, with caveats. The CIR Expert Panel concluded that Panax root ingredients are safe as used in cosmetics. Evidence for skin benefits comes from lab studies and a small topical trial.
Citations:
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel. (2015). Safety assessment of Panax spp root-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology, 34(3 Suppl). https://doi.org/10.1177/1091581815610508
- What it shows: CIR safety assessment of ginseng root ingredients.
- Kim, K. (2015). Effect of ginseng and ginsenosides on melanogenesis and their mechanism of action. Journal of Ginseng Research, 39(1), 1–6. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/?term=Effect%20of%20ginseng%20and%20ginsenosides%20on%20melanogenesis%20and%20their%20mechanism%20of%20action
- What it shows: Review of ginsenosides and skin pigmentation.
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel. (2015). Safety assessment of Panax spp root-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology, 34(3 Suppl). https://doi.org/10.1177/1091581815610508
2. Composition and Production
Claim: Ginseng extract is made from dried root, sometimes steamed first (red ginseng), with water or water and alcohol. It is standardized to total ginsenosides. |
Verification: Supported. Ginseng chemistry is well documented.
Citations:
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel. (2015). Safety assessment of Panax spp root-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology, 34(3 Suppl). https://doi.org/10.1177/1091581815610508
- What it shows: Describes ginseng root ingredients.
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel. (2015). Safety assessment of Panax spp root-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology, 34(3 Suppl). https://doi.org/10.1177/1091581815610508
3. Skin Type Suitability
Claim: Ginseng extract suits all skin types, especially normal, dry, and mature skin. |
Verification: Supported. CIR found ginseng root ingredients safe as used. We found no cosmetic clinical studies by skin type.
Citations:
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel. (2015). Safety assessment of Panax spp root-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology, 34(3 Suppl). https://doi.org/10.1177/1091581815610508
- What it shows: Safety conclusion.
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel. (2015). Safety assessment of Panax spp root-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology, 34(3 Suppl). https://doi.org/10.1177/1091581815610508
4. Hair and Scalp Suitability
Claim: In haircare, ginseng extract provides antioxidant support for the scalp and helps hair look healthy. |
Verification: Limited evidence. A lab study found red ginseng extract promoted growth of human hair follicles in culture. Hair-growth and hair-loss claims are drug claims, and ORY® haircare products are not intended to grow hair or prevent hair loss.
Citations:
- Park, G. H., et al. (2015). Red ginseng extract promotes the hair growth in cultured human hair follicles. Journal of Medicinal Food, 18(3), 354–362. https://doi.org/10.1089/jmf.2013.3031
- What it shows: Lab study on cultured hair follicles.
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. 21 CFR 310.527 — Drug products offered over-the-counter for external use as hair growers or for hair loss prevention. https://www.law.cornell.edu/cfr/text/21/310.527
- What it shows: FDA treats hair-growth and hair-loss products as drugs.
- Park, G. H., et al. (2015). Red ginseng extract promotes the hair growth in cultured human hair follicles. Journal of Medicinal Food, 18(3), 354–362. https://doi.org/10.1089/jmf.2013.3031
5. Benefits
Claim: Ginseng extract helps reduce the look of fine lines, helps skin look smoother, and provides antioxidant support. |
Verification: Supported, with caveats. In a 12-week placebo-controlled study of 20 people, a cream containing ginseng and hawthorn extracts improved the look of skin roughness and wrinkles around the eyes. Because the cream contained two extracts, the effect cannot be credited to ginseng alone. A separate randomized trial of a ginseng herbal mix improved wrinkles, but it was taken by mouth. Effects on skin tone are mixed in lab studies.
Citations:
- Hwang, E., Park, S. Y., Yin, C. S., Kim, H. T., Kim, Y. M., & Yi, T. H. (2017). Antiaging effects of the mixture of Panax ginseng and Crataegus pinnatifida in human dermal fibroblasts and healthy human skin. Journal of Ginseng Research, 41(1), 69–77. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jgr.2016.01.001
- What it shows: Topical placebo-controlled study.
- Cho, S., et al. (2009). Red ginseng root extract mixed with Torilus fructus and Corni fructus improves facial wrinkles and increases type I procollagen synthesis in human skin: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Journal of Medicinal Food, 12(6), 1252–1259. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20041778/
- What it shows: Oral (not topical) randomized trial.
- Kim, K. (2015). Effect of ginseng and ginsenosides on melanogenesis and their mechanism of action. Journal of Ginseng Research, 39(1), 1–6. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/?term=Effect%20of%20ginseng%20and%20ginsenosides%20on%20melanogenesis%20and%20their%20mechanism%20of%20action
- What it shows: Lab evidence on pigmentation.
- Hwang, E., Park, S. Y., Yin, C. S., Kim, H. T., Kim, Y. M., & Yi, T. H. (2017). Antiaging effects of the mixture of Panax ginseng and Crataegus pinnatifida in human dermal fibroblasts and healthy human skin. Journal of Ginseng Research, 41(1), 69–77. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jgr.2016.01.001
6. Use Across ORY® Product Lines
Claim: Ginseng extract is used in all four ORY® product lines. |
Verification: Supported, with caveats. We found no data on how much of ginseng’s active compounds survive soapmaking; rinse-off soap offers only brief skin contact.
| Product line | Typical level | How ORY® uses it |
| Skincare | 0.5–5% | Serums, creams, eye creams, masks, and toners. |
| Haircare | 0.5–3% | Scalp tonics and serums, shampoos, and conditioners. |
| Handmade Soap | 1–2% extract; 5–10% infused oil | Extract added at trace or ginseng-infused oil. |
| Cosmetics | 0.5–2% | Foundations, cushion compacts, primers, and lip treatments. |
Citations:
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel. (2015). Safety assessment of Panax spp root-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology, 34(3 Suppl). https://doi.org/10.1177/1091581815610508
- What it shows: Reported uses.
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Is It a Cosmetic, a Drug, or Both? (Or Is It Soap?) https://www.fda.gov/cosmetics/cosmetics-laws-regulations/it-cosmetic-drug-or-both-or-it-soap
- What it shows: FDA explains how soap is regulated.
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel. (2015). Safety assessment of Panax spp root-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology, 34(3 Suppl). https://doi.org/10.1177/1091581815610508
7. Pros
Claim: A well-known botanical with a CIR safety conclusion and some topical clinical support. |
Verification: Supported, with caveats. Clinical evidence is limited to a small combination study.
Citations:
- Hwang, E., Park, S. Y., Yin, C. S., Kim, H. T., Kim, Y. M., & Yi, T. H. (2017). Antiaging effects of the mixture of Panax ginseng and Crataegus pinnatifida in human dermal fibroblasts and healthy human skin. Journal of Ginseng Research, 41(1), 69–77. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jgr.2016.01.001
- What it shows: Topical study.
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel. (2015). Safety assessment of Panax spp root-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology, 34(3 Suppl). https://doi.org/10.1177/1091581815610508
- What it shows: Safety conclusion.
- Hwang, E., Park, S. Y., Yin, C. S., Kim, H. T., Kim, Y. M., & Yi, T. H. (2017). Antiaging effects of the mixture of Panax ginseng and Crataegus pinnatifida in human dermal fibroblasts and healthy human skin. Journal of Ginseng Research, 41(1), 69–77. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jgr.2016.01.001
8. Cons
Claim: Topical evidence is limited, quality varies, and ginseng is costly. |
Verification: Supported. We list these limits so you have the full picture:
- Limited topical trials. The one topical trial combined ginseng with another extract.
- Oral studies. Some well-known results came from ginseng taken by mouth.
- Quality varies. Ginsenoside content depends on species, age, and processing.
- Cost. Standardized extracts are expensive.
Citations:
- Hwang, E., Park, S. Y., Yin, C. S., Kim, H. T., Kim, Y. M., & Yi, T. H. (2017). Antiaging effects of the mixture of Panax ginseng and Crataegus pinnatifida in human dermal fibroblasts and healthy human skin. Journal of Ginseng Research, 41(1), 69–77. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jgr.2016.01.001
- What it shows: Topical study limits.
- Cho, S., et al. (2009). Red ginseng root extract mixed with Torilus fructus and Corni fructus improves facial wrinkles and increases type I procollagen synthesis in human skin: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Journal of Medicinal Food, 12(6), 1252–1259. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20041778/
- What it shows: Oral study.
- Hwang, E., Park, S. Y., Yin, C. S., Kim, H. T., Kim, Y. M., & Yi, T. H. (2017). Antiaging effects of the mixture of Panax ginseng and Crataegus pinnatifida in human dermal fibroblasts and healthy human skin. Journal of Ginseng Research, 41(1), 69–77. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jgr.2016.01.001
9. Safety Notes
Claim: Patch test before use; for external use only. |
Verification: Supported. Follow these precautions:
- Patch test any new product on a small area for 24–48 hours before full use.
- Stop use if redness, burning, itching, or rash occurs, and talk to a healthcare provider.
- For external use only. Avoid the eyes. Do not use on broken or seriously damaged skin.
- If you are pregnant, nursing, have a medical condition, or are buying for a child, ask a healthcare provider before use.
Citations:
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel. (2015). Safety assessment of Panax spp root-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology, 34(3 Suppl). https://doi.org/10.1177/1091581815610508
- What it shows: Safety assessment.
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel. (2015). Safety assessment of Panax spp root-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology, 34(3 Suppl). https://doi.org/10.1177/1091581815610508
10. Product-line notes
- ORY® Skincare: For external use only. Not for deep or puncture wounds, animal bites, or serious burns.
- ORY® Haircare: Designed for scalp comfort and the look and feel of hair. Not intended to treat dandruff or scalp conditions, or to promote hair growth or prevent hair loss. If you notice sudden shedding or a persistent itchy, flaking scalp, see a dermatologist.
- ORY® Handmade Soap: Handmade soap is naturally alkaline, and each bar may vary slightly in color, scent, and texture. Not intended to treat eczema or any skin condition.
- ORY® Cosmetics: Lip products are not intended to treat or protect chapped or cracked lips. Do not share applicators, and replace any product that changes color, smell, or texture.
11. References
Peer-reviewed research
- Cho, S., et al. (2009). Red ginseng root extract mixed with Torilus fructus and Corni fructus improves facial wrinkles and increases type I procollagen synthesis in human skin: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Journal of Medicinal Food, 12(6), 1252–1259. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20041778/
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel. (2015). Safety assessment of Panax spp root-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology, 34(3 Suppl). https://doi.org/10.1177/1091581815610508
- Hwang, E., Park, S. Y., Yin, C. S., Kim, H. T., Kim, Y. M., & Yi, T. H. (2017). Antiaging effects of the mixture of Panax ginseng and Crataegus pinnatifida in human dermal fibroblasts and healthy human skin. Journal of Ginseng Research, 41(1), 69–77. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jgr.2016.01.001
- Kim, K. (2015). Effect of ginseng and ginsenosides on melanogenesis and their mechanism of action. Journal of Ginseng Research, 39(1), 1–6. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/?term=Effect%20of%20ginseng%20and%20ginsenosides%20on%20melanogenesis%20and%20their%20mechanism%20of%20action
- Park, G. H., et al. (2015). Red ginseng extract promotes the hair growth in cultured human hair follicles. Journal of Medicinal Food, 18(3), 354–362. https://doi.org/10.1089/jmf.2013.3031
Government and regulatory sources
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. 21 CFR 310.527 — Drug products offered over-the-counter for external use as hair growers or for hair loss prevention. https://www.law.cornell.edu/cfr/text/21/310.527
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Is It a Cosmetic, a Drug, or Both? (Or Is It Soap?) https://www.fda.gov/cosmetics/cosmetics-laws-regulations/it-cosmetic-drug-or-both-or-it-soap