Skin Conditioning

Mirabilis Jalapa Extract

INCI: MIRABILIS JALAPA EXTRACT

Reviewed by Emma · Last updated 14 Aug 2026

A plant extract traditionally used to support skin hydration and calm inflammatory responses

Best For Skin Types

Sensitive, Dry, All

Addresses

Sensitivity, Redness, Dryness, Hydration

Usage Frequency

Daily

What Is Mirabilis Jalapa Extract?

Mirabilis jalapa extract is derived from the leaves and roots of the four o'clock plant, a species native to tropical regions and used in traditional medicine across Central and South America and Brazil. The extract is prepared through maceration and contains compounds believed to interact with the skin's inflammatory and immune responses.

In skincare formulations, it functions as a skin conditioning and protective agent, primarily noted for its potential anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties. It is typically incorporated into moisturisers and treatment products intended for reactive or sensitised skin.

How It Works

Mirabilis jalapa extract appears to work through multiple mechanisms. Research indicates it can inhibit histamine release from mast cells, immune cells involved in allergic and inflammatory skin responses. By modulating these pathways, the extract may reduce the cascade of inflammation that leads to redness, itching and discomfort.

Additionally, when incorporated into moisturisers, anti-inflammatory ingredients like this extract seem to support the skin's ability to retain hydration more effectively. This dual action of calming inflammatory activity whilst enhancing hydration may be particularly beneficial for compromised or reactive skin states.

Clinical Evidence & References

Preclinical studies demonstrate that aqueous and ethanolic extracts of Mirabilis jalapa show dose-dependent anti-inflammatory activity in animal models, including inhibition of paw oedema and mast cell degranulation. The extract also demonstrates non-competitive inhibition of histamine-induced responses in isolated tissue preparations, lending mechanistic support to traditional uses in allergic and inflammatory conditions.

A clinical trial in adult patients with mild-to-moderate atopic dermatitis found that moisturisers formulated with anti-inflammatory ingredients produced significant improvements in skin hydration over 14 days compared to control moisturisers. However, evidence specifically isolating Mirabilis jalapa's efficacy in human skin is currently limited, and further clinical studies would help establish its efficacy and optimal concentrations in skincare products.

How to Use

Mirabilis jalapa extract is typically used as part of a moisturiser or treatment serum applied to clean skin. For reactive or sensitised skin, begin with daily application and observe how your skin responds over one to two weeks. If you have very compromised skin or active dermatitis, introduce it gradually and consider patch testing first. It works well as part of a layered hydration routine and can be combined with other soothing or barrier-support ingredients.

Safety & Precautions

Mirabilis jalapa extract is generally well-tolerated in skincare formulations. Those with known plant allergies or severe atopic conditions should patch test before full application, as the extract is derived from a plant species historically used for allergic disorders and may theoretically trigger sensitivity in susceptible individuals.

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Other forms of Mirabilis Jalapa Extract

These appear on ingredients lists under different names but are the same substance. Mirabilis Jalapa Extract is the common form.

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