Sea holly

Organic sea holly extract

INCI nomenclature:

Eryngium maritimum extract

Part(s) used:

Aerial parts

Anti-Ageing
Organic farming

The power of plants

The sea holly is a pioneer plant with tough, prickly leaves that can survive in impoverished, hostile environments and even enrich them, so they are more hospitable for other species. It can flourish despite a harsh salty and windy coastal climate and on sandy areas where its root system helps stabilize and prevent erosion of the dunes. In France, it can be found on the Channel, Atlantic, Mediterranean and Corsican coastlines. The plant, cultivated in gardens since the Middle Ages, was widely harvested in England and Europe between the 17th and 18th centuries. It served as food for communities during periods of famine and was also used to flavour marshmallow thanks to the sweet taste of its roots, similar to that of the carrot. In medicine, sea holly has been known since Antiquity as a medicinal plant. Traditionally, it is recognized for its diuretic, anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving, aphrodisiac and also antimicrobial and antioxidant properties.

Skincare benefits of Organic sea holly extract

In cosmetics, sea holly extract has two important actions. It helps prevent the signs of ageing thanks to a powerful action on elastin, and provides an innovative action on the skin's resistance to stress and fatigue.

Responsible sourcing

Protecting the soil and biodiversity is a longstanding commitment at Clarins. That's why we have always given priority to plant- based active ingredients sourced from organic agriculture, grown using sustainable farming methods that respect nature and the health of the soil. Our sea holly extract is harvested by hand and obtained using natural, environmentally-friendly methods. It is grown in greenhouses, next to the extraction and production site of the extract and is organically-certified.