Emollient

Honey … Root Extract

INCI: HONEY/PANAX GINSENG ROOT/PROPOLIS/ROYAL JELLY/SCUTELLARIA BAICALENSIS ROOT EXTRACT

Reviewed by Rosie · Last updated 2 Jun 2026

A blend of botanicals and bee-derived ingredients traditionally valued for skin conditioning

Best For Skin Types

All, Dry, Sensitive, Mature

Addresses

Dryness, Hydration, Sensitivity, Barrier repair

Usage Frequency

Daily

What Is Honey … Root Extract?

This ingredient profile refers to a combination of natural materials: honey (a humectant produced by bees), Panax ginseng root (a plant extract used in traditional medicine), propolis (a resinous mixture bees collect from plants), royal jelly (a nutritious secretion produced by worker bees), and Scutellaria baicalensis root extract (derived from Chinese skullcap, a herb in traditional use). When formulated together, they function primarily as skin conditioners and emollients.

Each component brings different properties to a formulation. Honey provides humectancy and has been used in skincare for centuries. Ginseng and Scutellaria are plant extracts with a long history in Asian skincare traditions. Propolis and royal jelly are bee-derived materials that contain various compounds including amino acids and polyphenols.

How It Works

Honey works by attracting water molecules to the skin, increasing hydration levels. The plant extracts and bee-derived materials contain bioactive compounds—including flavonoids and amino acids—that may support skin condition and provide antioxidant benefits.

Propolis and royal jelly contain proteins and nutrients that have been studied for potential skin-soothing effects, though the exact mechanisms in topical formulations remain an area for further research.

Clinical Evidence & References

Honey has moderate evidence supporting its hydrating and skin-conditioning properties when used topically. Panax ginseng shows promise in some studies for skin elasticity and radiance. Propolis has been investigated for potential antioxidant and antimicrobial activity, with several studies suggesting benefit, though results vary by extraction method and concentration.

Evidence for royal jelly and Scutellaria baicalensis in skincare is more limited; much research focuses on oral consumption rather than topical application. While these ingredients have long histories in traditional use, larger and more standardised clinical studies would help clarify their efficacy in modern formulations.

How to Use

This ingredient blend is typically found in hydrating serums, essences, masks, and moisturisers. Apply to clean skin as part of your regular routine. If using a product containing this blend, follow the specific product instructions, as concentrations and formulation will vary. Patch testing is advisable if you have sensitive skin or known allergies to bee products or botanicals.

Safety & Precautions

Generally well-tolerated by most skin types. However, those with bee product allergies or sensitivities should avoid products containing propolis and royal jelly. Ginseng and Scutellaria are considered safe in cosmetic use at typical concentrations.

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