Lactobacillus/Eriodictyon Californicum (Yerba Santa) Ferment Extract

anti-redness + sensitivity · antioxidant · hydrating · barrier support
by cipher skincare published: feb 5, 2025 revised: feb 16, 2026 1 min read
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why we use lactobacillus/eriodictyon californicum (yerba santa) ferment extract

The Basics

Yerba Santa (Eriodictyon californicum), meaning "holy herb" in Spanish, is an aromatic evergreen shrub native to California and Oregon. Traditionally, indigenous communities, such as the Chumash, utilised its sticky, resinous leaves to treat respiratory ailments like asthma and upper respiratory infections. They also applied mashed leaves externally to wounds, insect bites, and sores, leveraging its soothing properties.1

In contemporary skincare, Yerba Santa is valued for its moisturising and soothing effects. In Cipher products, we utilise a specialised fermented form of Yerba Santa. Fermenting the leaves with Lactobacillus lactis breaks down complex plant biomolecules, isolating beneficial glycoproteins. These glycoproteins bind water through hydrogen bonding, enhancing skin hydration. This process imparts moisturising and soothing properties, making the extract ideal for both skin and hair care formulations. Furthermore, the smooth and silky texture imparts luxurious cushion to skincare products akin to the feel of silicones.2

references

  1. 1 CALIFORNIA YERBA SANTA. (n.d.). CALIFORNIA YERBA SANTA
  2. 2 Active Concepts LLC. (2024). Evaluation of Yerba Santa Glycoprotein for hydration and antioxidant activity. Retrieved from activeconceptsllc.com ACB Yerba Santa Glycoprotein PF

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