At Saebom Clinic, we believe that true healing starts with nature. Our herbal balm is handcrafted using 15 Korean herbs, slowly infused in jojoba oil for 100 days. This page shares clinical studies, traditional uses, and real stories that support our ingredients and method.
An Evidence-Based Review of Skin Benefits for Botanical Ingredients in Saebom Botanics Balm
With increasing scientific validation of traditionally used botanical extracts for dermatological applications, this report aims to provide a comprehensive, evidence-based analysis of the 15 specific botanical ingredients found in 'Saebom Botanics Balm'. The focus will be on the scientifically documented skin health-related benefits of each ingredient. The methodology for this report primarily draws upon PubMed-centric research, excluding non-scientific sources for efficacy claims. The nature of the ingredient list (e.g., Lithospermum, Angelica Root, Chrysanthemum, many of which originate from Korean traditional medicine or Hanbang) as presented in the user query and the provided research, suggests a significant trend: the scientific community is increasingly exploring and validating the empirical knowledge of traditional medicine for dermatological solutions. The provided research often references the traditional uses of these botanicals before delving into modern pharmacological studies. This indicates a research paradigm where traditional claims serve as a framework for hypothesis generation for scientific investigation. The demand for such a report signifies a desire to bridge this gap with verifiable data, suggesting a move towards integrative medicine where ancient wisdom is not disregarded but rather scrutinized and potentially integrated into evidence-based practices, especially in the accessible realm of topical skincare.
The following table summarizes key information for each botanical ingredient for quick reference.
| Korean Name (Common Name) | Scientific Name (Genus species) | Key Bioactive Compounds (Identified in Research) | Key Documented Skin Benefits (Keywords) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 자초 (Jacho) | Lithospermum erythrorhizon Siebold & Zucc. | Shikonin and its derivatives, Lithospermic acid, Exosome-Like Vesicles (LELVs) | Anti-inflammatory, Wound healing, Skin regeneration, Promotes collagen synthesis, Antioxidant |
| 상엽 (Sangyeop) | Morus alba L. | Flavonoids (rutin, quercetin, etc.), Phenolic compounds, Polysaccharides | Anti-inflammatory, Antioxidant, Traditional skin cooling agent, Skin whitening |
| 당귀 (Danggwi) | Angelica gigas Nakai | Decursin, Decursinol angelate, Nodakenin | Skin conditioning, Anti-inflammatory (ameliorates atopic dermatitis-like lesions), Hair growth promotion (skin health related), Antioxidant potential |
| 감국 (Gamguk) | Chrysanthemum indicum L. | Flavonoids (luteolin, apigenin, etc.), Terpenoids, Phenylpropanoids (chlorogenic acid, dicaffeoylquinic acid derivatives) | Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory, Traditional "heat-clearing" and detoxifying (relevant to calming sensitive skin) |
| 유근피 (Yugeunpi) | Ulmus rubra Muhl. | Mucilage, Tannins, Resins | Soothes skin rashes & irritation (emollient), Supports wound healing, Astringent properties |
| 감초 (Gamcho) | Glycyrrhiza glabra L. / G. uralensis Fisch. ex DC. | Glycyrrhizin/Glycyrrhizic acid, 18β-glycyrrhetinic acid, Flavonoids (glabridin, liquiritin, licochalcones, etc.) | Anti-inflammatory, Skin soothing, Antioxidant, Skin hydration & barrier support, Antibacterial, Skin whitening |
| 황금 (Hwanggeum) | Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi | Flavonoids (baicalin, baicalein, wogonin) | Anti-inflammatory, Antioxidant, Improves oily & acne-prone skin (sebum control, inflammation reduction), Skin barrier support |
| 백작약 (Baekjakyak) | Paeonia lactiflora Pall. | Paeoniflorin, Oxypaeoniflorin, Total Glucosides of Paeony (TGP), Paeonol | Anti-inflammatory, Soothes sensitive skin, Antioxidant, Photoprotective, Skin softening & conditioning, Pigmentation improvement/Skin whitening, Collagen protection/Anti-aging |
| 지실 (Jishil) | Citrus aurantium L. | Flavonoids (hesperidin, naringin), Essential oils (petitgrain, neroli), Limonoids | Anti-inflammatory (suppresses UVB-induced damage), Astringent properties, Antioxidant, Potential for reducing puffiness (anti-edema) |
| 금은화 (Geumeunhwa) | Lonicera japonica Thunb. | Organic acids (chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid), Flavonoids (luteoloside, luteolin), Essential oils (linalool) | Anti-inflammatory, "Heat-clearing" effect, Antioxidant, Detoxifying, Antibacterial |
| 연교 (Yeongyo) | Forsythia suspensa (Thunb.) Vahl | Forsythiaside (Forsythoside A), Phillyrin, Pinoresinol | Anti-inflammatory (attenuates atopic dermatitis symptoms), Antioxidant, Skin hydration & collagen protection (when combined with Lithospermum) |
| 백지 (Baekji) | Angelica dahurica (Fisch. ex Hoffm.) Benth. & Hook.f. ex Franch. & Sav. | Furocoumarins (imperatorin, oxypeucedanin, byakangelicin, bergapten, etc.) | Skin whitening/brightening (tyrosinase modulation), Anti-inflammatory potential |
| 고삼 (Gosam) | Sophora flavescens Aiton | Alkaloids (matrine, oxymatrine), Flavonoids (kurarinone, kushenols, trifolirhizin) | Antibacterial & Antifungal (skin infections, acne-related), Anti-inflammatory, Wound healing & skin whitening potential, Anti-pruritic (itch relief) |
| 병풀 (Byeongpul) | Centella asiatica (L.) Urb. | Pentacyclic triterpenes (asiaticoside, madecassoside, asiatic acid, madecassic acid) | Wound healing, Skin regeneration, Collagen synthesis promotion, Skin barrier strengthening & hydration, Anti-inflammatory, Antioxidant, Anti-aging & UV protection context |
| 진피 (Chenpi) | Citrus unshiu Markovich / C. reticulata Blanco | Hesperidin, Nobiletin (PMF), Tangeretin (PMF), Narirutin | Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory, Skin barrier protection/Skin clarifying potential, Alleviates allergic reactions |
A. 자초 (Jacho) – Lithospermum erythrorhizon
The research on LELVs highlights a sophisticated biological mechanism (exosome-like vesicles) through which traditional herbs exert their effects, an area at the forefront of pharmacology and regenerative medicine. While traditional use suggests efficacy, the mechanisms are often unclear. The detailed study on LELV isolation and function shows these vesicles carry the plant's bioactive compounds. Exosomes are known intercellular communicators, and LELVs acting similarly suggests the plant components are "packaged" for efficient delivery to target skin cells (fibroblasts, macrophages). This implies plants may have evolved (or can be induced via callus culture) systems for targeted action, enhancing bioavailability and efficacy, contributing to wound healing and inflammation reduction. In a broader sense, this could revolutionize how we understand and utilize plant-derived bioactives, moving beyond simple extracts to bioengineered plant-derived vesicles for skin therapeutics. Furthermore, while anti-inflammatory effects are prominent, L. erythrorhizon (via LELVs) demonstrates a coordinated regenerative response: promoting fibroblast proliferation, migration, and collagen synthesis while simultaneously reducing inflammation. This suggests a holistic approach to tissue repair. Wound healing is a complex process involving inflammatory, proliferative, and remodeling phases. LELVs positively influence all these stages: TNF-α reduction (inflammation), increased fibroblast proliferation and migration (proliferation), and increased collagen synthesis (remodeling). This is not just one effect (e.g., only reducing inflammation) but a cascade of beneficial actions. Reduced inflammation likely creates a more favorable environment for fibroblasts to proliferate and synthesize collagen, and LELVs may also contain factors that directly stimulate fibroblasts. This suggests L. erythrorhizon is a strong candidate not just for symptomatic treatment of inflammation but for comprehensive skin repair formulations.
B. 상엽 (Sangyeop) – Morus alba (Mulberry Leaf)
The traditional use of Morus alba leaves as a "cooling agent" correlates strongly with the scientifically documented potent anti-inflammatory activity of its flavonoids. Traditional medicine often uses metaphorical language like "cooling" for inflammation or fever. explicitly states leaves were employed as "cooling agents." and detail how MLFs inhibit multiple key inflammatory mediators (NO, PGE2, iNOS, COX-2, TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6), which are directly involved in the physiological sensation of heat and inflammation. The reduction of these inflammatory molecules by MLFs would lead to a decrease in localized inflammation and associated heat, thus validating the traditionally described "cooling" effect. This provides a scientific rationale suggesting Morus alba leaf extract could be effective in calming red, inflamed, or "hot" skin conditions. Furthermore, Morus alba leaf flavonoids exhibit antioxidant activity through multiple mechanisms, including direct ROS reduction, free radical scavenging, and metal ion chelation. This suggests robust and versatile protection against oxidative stress in the skin. Oxidative stress in the skin arises from various sources and involves different types of damaging molecules. and list several distinct antioxidant actions: ROS reduction, DPPH scavenging, metal chelation, and reducing power. These are not redundant but represent different ways of combating oxidative stress (e.g., preventing formation vs. neutralizing existing radicals vs. sequestering pro-oxidant metals). This multi-pronged approach implies greater efficacy in protecting skin cells from diverse oxidative insults compared to an antioxidant with a single mechanism. Thus, Morus alba leaf extract could be a valuable ingredient in comprehensive environmental protection and anti-aging formulations where oxidative stress is a key factor.
C. 당귀 (Danggwi) – Angelica gigas (Korean Angelica Root)
The documented effects of A. gigas on atopic dermatitis , general inflammation , and hair growth promotion via cytokine modulation all point towards its profound ability to regulate inflammatory pathways in the skin. Atopic dermatitis is an inflammatory skin disease, and A. gigas (decursin derivatives) attenuates it. Croton oil induces acute inflammation, and A. gigas extract inhibits it. Hair growth can be influenced by the inflammatory status of the scalp skin, and A. gigas promotes hair growth by reducing inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β) and increasing anti-inflammatory ones (IL-4, IL-13) in the skin. The common thread is inflammation modulation. By controlling the inflammatory response, A. gigas can alleviate symptoms of inflammatory dermatoses and foster a healthier environment for skin appendages like hair follicles. This suggests A. gigas could be a versatile ingredient for calming various skin irritations and supporting overall skin health by targeting underlying inflammatory processes, not just one specific condition. Although focuses on hair growth, the finding that A. gigas extract modulates the inflammatory environment in the dorsal (scalp) skin suggests broader benefits for scalp health, such as soothing an irritated scalp or addressing inflammatory scalp conditions. The study in applied A. gigas topically to mouse dorsal skin (analogous to scalp). Changes in inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-4, IL-13) were observed within this skin tissue. Many scalp issues (e.g., dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, general itchiness) have an inflammatory component. If A. gigas can beneficially alter the cytokine profile in scalp skin, it could potentially alleviate these inflammatory scalp conditions even if hair growth is not the primary concern. Thus, its "skin conditioning" property could reasonably extend to scalp conditioning, making A. gigas suitable for specialized scalp care formulations.
D. 감국 (Gamguk) – Chrysanthemum indicum (Indian Chrysanthemum Flower)
The Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) concept of "clearing heat" for C. indicum is strongly supported by modern pharmacological findings demonstrating its ability to inhibit a wide array of inflammatory mediators (NO, PGE2, TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6) and key inflammatory enzymes (iNOS, COX-2, MPO) via major signaling pathways (MAPK, NF-$\kappa$B). In TCM, "heat" often corresponds to inflammation, redness, swelling, and pain in Western medicine. details traditional uses like for sores, abscesses, swelling, and redness – all signs of "heat" and inflammation. The same source provides extensive evidence for C. indicum's molecular anti-inflammatory actions: inhibition of specific cytokines, chemokines, and enzymes involved in the inflammatory cascade. The observed reduction in physical signs of "heat" (e.g., reduced ear edema, skin thickness in dermatitis models) is a direct consequence of these molecular inhibitory effects on inflammatory processes. This suggests C. indicum is not just a folk remedy but has a verifiable scientific basis for its "heat-clearing" abilities, making it a strong candidate for calming acutely inflamed or irritated skin conditions. The combination of C. indicum's potent antioxidant (enhancing SOD, CAT, GPX) and anti-inflammatory properties offers a dual approach to protecting against skin damage, especially for conditions exacerbated by both oxidative stress and inflammation (e.g., photoaging, certain dermatoses). Many skin damaging processes involve both oxidative stress (ROS generation) and inflammation, which often amplify each other. shows C. indicum boosts endogenous antioxidant enzymes and reduces inflammatory cytokines. confirms high antioxidant activity in leaves. This means it can neutralize existing ROS and also dampen the inflammatory response that might generate more ROS or be triggered by ROS. This dual action is more comprehensive than an ingredient targeting only one aspect. Thus, C. indicum could be particularly effective in protective skincare formulations (e.g., anti-pollution, after-sun) where both oxidative and inflammatory insults are common.
E. 유근피 (Yugeunpi) – Ulmus rubra (Slippery Elm Bark)
The primary benefit of Ulmus rubra for irritated skin likely stems from the physical barrier and emollient action of its mucilage, supported by the astringent action of tannins. highlights the "slippery texture" of the inner bark due to mucilage. This physical property allows it to form a soothing and protective layer over irritated skin. This layer can reduce friction, prevent further irritation, and retain moisture. also mentions tannins and resins as astringents. Astringents can help to gently contract tissues, reduce minor oozing, and provide a toning effect. While the mucilage provides immediate soothing and a protective film, the tannins may offer a mild tightening and cleansing effect, contributing to overall relief from rashes and irritation. This suggests Ulmus rubra is valued for immediate physical relief and barrier function, particularly in a balm for chapped, abraded, or mildly inflamed skin, rather than deep pharmacological action. Its "generally recognized as safe" (GRAS) status and lack of reported liver toxicity make Ulmus rubra a suitable ingredient for products aimed at sensitive or compromised skin where minimizing potential irritants is crucial. Skin rashes and irritation often occur on skin that is sensitive or has a compromised barrier. For these conditions, ingredients with a high safety profile and low irritation potential are preferred. The fact that its primary mechanism is emollience (physical soothing) rather than potent pharmacological intervention further supports its gentleness. Thus, Ulmus rubra can be confidently included in formulations for sensitive skin, children, or conditions where gentle, protective, and soothing actions are paramount.
F. 감초 (Gamcho) – Glycyrrhiza uralensis / Glycyrrhiza glabra (Licorice Root)
The comparison of glycyrrhizin's anti-inflammatory effects to glucocorticoids suggests it acts as a potent natural modulator of skin inflammation, potentially offering benefits similar to mild topical steroids but with a plant-derived profile. Glucocorticoids (e.g., hydrocortisone) are standard treatments for skin inflammation due to their potent effects. describes glycyrrhizin's anti-inflammatory effect as "comparable to those of glucocorticoids," and mentions glycyrrhizin has a "strengthening action on hydrocortisone anti-inflammatory activity." This implies a significant level of efficacy in inhibiting inflammatory pathways, possibly by interfering with similar targets or potentiating endogenous cortisol. Its ability to reduce erythema, edema, and itching further supports this potent soothing action. Thus, licorice root extract could be a key ingredient in formulations aiming for powerful yet natural relief of inflammatory skin conditions, potentially reducing reliance on synthetic corticosteroids in milder cases. The combination of licorice root's documented ability to improve skin hydration and act as a humectant with its potent anti-inflammatory properties offers a dual approach to repairing and soothing a compromised skin barrier. A compromised skin barrier is often characterized by increased TEWL, dryness, and inflammation. claims licorice extract helps retain moisture, reduce TEWL, and support the skin barrier. Simultaneously, its anti-inflammatory compounds (glycyrrhizin, glabridin) reduce underlying inflammation that can further damage the barrier. By providing hydration (humectant action) and reducing inflammation, licorice extract can aid in restoring barrier integrity. Less inflamed skin is better able to repair itself, and improved hydration strengthens the physical barrier. This suggests licorice root extract is highly suitable for products targeting dry, sensitive, or eczematous skin, where both hydration and inflammation management are crucial.
G. 황금 (Hwanggeum) – Scutellaria baicalensis (Baikal Skullcap Root)
H. 백작약 (Baekjakyak) – Paeonia lactiflora (White Peony Root)
I. 지실 (Jishil) – Citrus aurantium (Bitter Orange Peel/Immature Fruit)