BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Field of the Invention

The present invention relates generally to compositions that include one or any combination of extracts from the following plants:Kunzea ericoides; Quassia undulata; Diospyros mespiliformis; Khaya senegalensis; Biophytum petersianum; Detarium microcarpum; Crossopteryx febrofiga; Allophylus africanus; Burkea africana; Nauclea latifolia; Bombax costatum; Buchanania reticulata; Melanorrhoea laccifera; Machilus odoratissimus; Spondias pinnata; Canthium dicoccum; Parinari annamensis; Aporosa tetrapleura; Knema globularia; Garcinia gaudichaudii; Randia dasycarpa; Capparis micrantha; orGarcinia benthamior any combination thereof or at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, or 23 of the extracts. The extracts can be from the whole plant (i.e., the entire plant is used to prepare the extract) or from a part of the plant (e.g., leaf, stem, root, flower, seed, bark, fruit, sap, etc.). The compositions can be formulated as topical skin compositions, edible compositions, injectible compositions, oral compositions, hair care compositions, etc.

Description of Related Art

Ageing, chronic exposure to adverse environmental factors, malnutrition, fatigue, etc., can change the visual appearance, physical properties, or physiological functions of skin in ways that are considered visually undesirable. The most notable and obvious changes include the development of fine lines and wrinkles, loss of elasticity, increased sagging, loss of firmness, loss of color evenness or tone, coarse surface texture, and mottled pigmentation. Less obvious, but measurable changes which occur as skin ages or endures chronic environmental insult include a general reduction in cellular and tissue vitality, reduction in cell replication rates, reduced cutaneous blood flow, reduced moisture content, accumulated errors in structure and function, alterations in the normal regulation of common biochemical pathways, and a reduction in the skin's ability to remodel and repair itself. Many of the alterations in appearance and function of the skin are caused by changes in the outer epidermal layer of the skin, while others are caused by changes in the lower dermis.

Previous attempts to improve the visual appearance of skin with known skin active-ingredients have been shown to have various drawbacks such as skin irritation and prolonged recovery periods.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The inventors discovered that a wide variety of plant extracts have therapeutic benefits. These extracts include extracts obtained fromKunzea ericoides, Quassia undulata, Diospyros mespiliformis, Khaya senegalensis, Biophytum petersianum, Detarium microcarpum, Crossopteryx febrofiga, Allophylus africanus, Burkea africana, Nauclea latifolia, Bombax costatum, Buchanania reticulata, Melanorrhoea laccifera, Machilus odoratissimus, Spondias pinnata, Canthium dicoccum, Parinari annamensis, Aporosa tetrapleura, Knema globularia, Garcinia gaudichaudii, Randia dasycarpa, Capparis micrantha, orGarcinia benthamior any combination thereof or at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, or 23 of the extracts. The extracts can be from the whole plant (i.e., the entire plant is used to prepare the extract) or from a part of the plant (e.g., leaf, stem, root, flower, seed, bark, fruit, sap, etc.). The compositions can be formulated as topical skin compositions, edible compositions, injectible compositions, oral compositions, hair care compositions, etc. In particular aspects, the combinations of (1)Quassia undulateandMelanorrhoea laccifera, (2)Quassia undulata, Buchanania reticulata, andCanthium dicoccum, and/or (3)Quassia undulata, Aporosa tetrapleura, andCanthium dicoccumhave been found to work well in providing a multi-functional/multi beneficial skin treatment composition, as such combinations provide a wide range of benefits ranging from COX-1 inhibition, COX-2 inhibition, antioxidant activity, MMP-1 inhibition, lipoxygenase inhibition, tyrosinase inhibition, TNF-α inhibition, stimulation of collagen synthesis, and B16 melanogenesis inhibition. In other aspects, the following combinations have also been shown to work well for a multi-beneficial/multi-purpose skin treatement composisition: The extracts can be aqueous extracts, non-aqueous extracts, lyophilized extracts, etc. The extracts can be extracted with alcohol (e.g., methanol, ethanol propanol, butanol, etc.), glycols (e.g., propylene glycol, butylene glycol, etc.), oils, water, etc. The compositions of the present invention are capable of inhibiting COX-1, COX-2, MMP-1, lipoxygenase, tyrosinase, TNF-α, and/or B16 melanogenesis enzymes, stimulating collagen synthesis, and/or activating the binding site of alpha-2 adrenergic receptors. Addititional combinations that were discovered that can be useful for multi-purpose/multi-beneficial compositions to treat skin include a combination ofKunzea ericoidesleaf extract,Quassia undulataleaf extract, andGarcinia gaudichaudiileaf extract, which results in a composition that has a wide variety of benefits such as inhibition of COX-1, COX-2, MMP-1, lipoxygenase, tyrosinase, TNF-α, and B16 melanogenesis enzymes, while also stimulating collagen synthesis and activating the binding site of alpha-2 adrenergic receptors, and further comprising anti-oxidant effects. Therefore, such a combination can be used to create a multi-purpose composition (e.g., skin treatement, disease, food, etc.). In another aspect, the combination ofQuassia undulataleaf,Buchanania reticulataleaf,Canthium dicoccumleaf, andRandia dasycarpaleaf extract surprising provides a wide variety of benefits such as inhibition of COX-1, COX-2, MMP-1, lipoxygenase, tyrosinase, TNF-α, and B16 melanogenesis enzymes, while also stimulating collagen synthesis and activating the binding site of alpha-2 adrenergic receptors, and further comprising anti-oxidant effects.

The compositions can further include 0.01% to 99% by weight of said extracts (or 0.1, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.8, 0.9, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 99%, or more or any integer or range therein). The composition can be formulated as a lotion, cream, gel, serum, emulsion, powder, etc. In certain instances, the compositions can further include a moisturizing agent or a humectant, water, a surfactant, a silicone containing compounds, a UV agent, an oil, an antioxidant, a vitamin or mineral, a structuring agent, a thickening agent, a cosmetic ingredient, a pharmaceutical ingredient, and/or other ingredients identified in this specification or those known in the art.

In another aspect, there is disclosed an aqueous extract, an oil extract, an alcoholic extract, a lyophilized extract fromKunzea ericoides, Quassia undulata, Diospyros mespiliformis, Khaya senegalensis, Biophytum petersianum, Detarium microcarpum, Crossopteryx febrofiga, Allophylus africanus, Burkea africana, Nauclea latifolia, Bombax costatum, Buchanania reticulata, Melanorrhoea laccifera, Machilus odoratissimus, Spondias pinnata, Canthium dicoccum, Parinari annamensis, Aporosa tetrapleura, Knema globularia, Garcinia gaudichaudii, Randia dasycarpa, Capparis micrantha, orGarcinia benthamior any combination thereof or at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, or 23 of the plants. In particular aspects, the extracts are obtained from the whole plant (i.e., the entire plant is used to prepare the extract) or from a part of the plant (e.g., leaf, stem, root, flower, seed, bark, fruit, sap, etc.). In certain aspects, the extracts are obtained from the leaf, bark, or root. Such extracts can be incorporated into topical skin or hair care compositions, pharmaceutical compositions, edible compositions, food-based products, injectible compositions, etc. The compositions can be formulated as emulsions (e.g., oil-in-water, water-in-oil, silicone-in-water, water-in-silicone, water-in-oil-in-water, oil-in-water, oil-in-water-in-oil, oil-in-water-in-silicone, etc.), creams, lotions, solutions (e.g., aqueous or hydro-alcoholic solutions), anhydrous bases (e.g., lipstick or a powder), gels, ointments, milks, pastes, aerosols, solid forms, eye jellies, pills, liquid gel caps, etc. It is also contemplated that the viscosity of the composition can be selected to achieve a desired result, e.g., depending on the type of composition desired, the viscosity of such composition can be from about 1 cps to well over 1 million cps or any range or integer derivable therein (e.g., 2 cps, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000, 2000, 3000, 4000, 5000, 6000, 7000, 8000, 9000, 10000, 20000, 30000, 40000, 50000, 60000, 70000, 80000, 90000, 100000, 200000, 300000, 400000, 500000, 600000, 700000, 800000, 900000, 1000000 cps, etc., as measured on a Brookfield Viscometer using a TC spindle at 2.5 rpm at 25° C.).

The compositions of the present invention can include any desired amount of any one of or any combination of the aforementioned extracts. The amount of the extracts can individually or combined be from 0.0001, 0.0002, 0.0003, 0.0004, 0.0005, 0.0006, 0.0007, 0.0008, 0.0009, 0.001, 0.002, 0.003, 0.004, 0.005, 0.006, 0.007, 0.008, 0.009, 0.01, 0.02, 0.03, 0.04, 0.05, 0.06, 0.07, 0.08, 0.09, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.8, 0.9, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99%, or more, or any range derivable therein, by weight or volume of the extract or combination of extracts.

The compositions of the present invention can also be modified to have a desired oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) value. In certain non-limiting aspects, the compositions of the present invention or the plant extracts identified throughout this specification can be modified to have an ORAC value per mg of at least about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 70, 80, 90, 95, 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000, 2000, 3000, 4000, 5000, 6000, 7000, 8000, 9000, 10000, 15000, 20000, 30000, 50000, 100000 or more or any range derivable therein.

The compositions in non-limiting aspects can have a pH of about 6 to about 9. In other aspects, the pH can be 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, or 14. The compositions can include a triglyceride. Non-limiting examples include small, medium, and large chain triglycerides. In certain aspects, the triglyceride is a medium chain triglyceride (e.g., caprylic capric triglyceride). The compositions can also include preservatives. Non-limiting examples of preservatives include methylparaben, propylparaben, or a mixture of methylparaben and propylparaben.

Compositions of the present invention can have UVA and UVB absorption properties. The compositions can have an sun protection factor (SPF) of 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, or more, or any integer or derivative therein. The compositions can be sunscreen lotions, sprays, or creams.

The compositions of the present invention can also include any one of, any combination of, or all of the following additional ingredients: water, a chelating agent, a moisturizing agent, a preservative, a thickening agent, a silicone containing compound, an essential oil, a structuring agent, a vitamin, a pharmaceutical ingredient, or an antioxidant, or any combination of such ingredients or mixtures of such ingredients. In certain aspects, the composition can include at least two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, or all of these additional ingredients identified in the previous sentence. Non-limiting examples of these additional ingredients are identified throughout this specification and are incorporated into this section by reference. The amounts of such ingredients can range from 0.0001% to 99.9% by weight or volume of the composition, or any integer or range in between as disclosed in other sections of this specification, which are incorporated into this paragraph by reference.

In another embodiment, there is disclosed a topical skin care composition that includes an one of or combination of the aforementioned extracts in combination with any one of, any combination of, or all of the following ingredients: water; glycerin; butylene glycol; propylene glycol; phenoxyethanol; a chelating agent (e.g., EDTA, disodium EDTA, trisodium EDTA, EGTA, disodium EGTA, trisodium EGTA, citric acid, phosphoric acid, succinic acid, etc.); steareth-20; chlorhexidine diglunonate; potassium sorbate; and/or a preservative (e.g., methylparaben, propylparaben, butylparaben, ethylparaben, isobutylparaben, etc.). In particular aspects, the composition can further include any one of, any combination of, or all of the following additional ingredients: alcohol; denatured alcohol; glyceryl stearate; dimethicone; PEG-100 stearate; capryl glycol; triethanolamine; maltodextrin; sorbic acid; ethylene brassylate; methyl linalool; isobutyl methyl tetrahydropyranol; ethylhexylglycerin; and/or hexylene glycol. The concentrations of these ingredients can range from 0.00001 to 99% by weight or volume of the composition or any integer or range derivable therein as explained in other portions of this specification which are incorporated into this paragraph by reference. In particular aspects, the concentration of water can be at least 35% to 80% by weight of water.

In another embodiment, there is disclosed a topical skin care composition that includes an one of or combination of the aforementioned extracts in combination with any one of, any combination of, or all of the following ingredients: water; dimethicone; triethanolamine; phenonip; betaine; a chelating agent (e.g., EDTA, disodium EDTA, trisodium EDTA, EGTA, disodium EGTA, trisodium EGTA, citric acid, phosphoric acid, succinic acid, etc.); tocopheryl acetate; and/or prodew 400. In particular aspects, the composition can further include any one of, any combination of, or all of the following additional ingredients: propylene glycol; isododecane; polyacrylamide/C13-C14 isoparaffin/laureth 7 mixture; PEG-12 dimethicone; and/or ethylhexyl palmitate. The concentrations of these ingredients can range from 0.00001 to 99% by weight or volume of the composition or any integer or range derivable therein as explained in other portions of this specification which are incorporated into this paragraph by reference. In particular aspects, the concentration of water can be at least 35% to 80% by weight of water.

In another embodiment, there is disclosed a topical skin care composition that includes an one of or combination of the aforementioned extracts in combination with any one of, any combination of, or all of the following ingredients: water; glycerin; pentylene glycol; capryl glycol; disodium EDTA; capric/caprylic triglyceride; shea butter; squalane; cetyl alcohol; dimethicone; ceramide II; stearic acid; a mixture of glyceryl stearate and PEG 100 stearate; or a mixture of acrylamide/acryloyl dimethyl taurate copolymer, isohexadecane, and polysorbate 80. The concentrations of these ingredients can range from 0.00001 to 99% by weight or volume of the composition or any integer or range derivable therein as explained in other portions of this specification which are incorporated into this paragraph by reference. In particular aspects, the concentration of water can be at least 35% to 80% by weight of water. The ratio of water to glycerin can be from about 7:1 to 9:1 based on the total weight of the composition. The ratio of glycerin to pentylene glycol can be from about 1:1 to about 2:1 based on the total weight of the composition.

In another embodiment, there is disclosed a topical skin care composition that includes any one of or combination of the aforementioned extracts in combination with any one of, any combination of, or all of the following ingredients: water; glycerin; capryl glycol; capryl glycol; disodium EDTA; petrolatum; squalane; cetyl alcohol; a mixture of glyceryl stearate and PEG 100 stearate; dimethicone; or a mixture of acrylamide/acryloyl dimethyl taurate copolymer, isohexadecane, and polysorbate 80. The concentrations of these ingredients can range from 0.00001 to 99% by weight or volume of the composition or any integer or range derivable therein as explained in other portions of this specification which are incorporated into this paragraph by reference. In particular aspects, the concentration of water can be at least 35% to 80% by weight of water. The ratio of water to glycerin can be from about 12:1 to 16:1 based on the total weight of the composition. The ratio of glycerin to pentylene glycol can be from about 0.5:1 to about 1.5:1 based on the total weight of the composition.

In another embodiment, there is disclosed a topical skin care composition that includes an one of or combination of the aforementioned extracts in combination with any one of, any combination of, or all of the following ingredients: water; xanthan gum; disodium EDTA; pentylene glycol; capryl glycol; acrylate C10-30 acrylate cross polymer; triethanolamine; PVP/hexadecene copolymer; C12-15 alkyl benzoate; sorbitan isostearate; or a sunscreen agent. The concentrations of these ingredients can range from 0.00001 to 99% by weight or volume of the composition or any integer or range derivable therein as explained in other portions of this specification which are incorporated into this paragraph by reference. In particular aspects, the concentration of water can be at least 35% to 80% by weight of water. The ratio of water to C12-15 alkyl benzoate can be from about 2:1 to 3:1 based on the total weight of the composition. The ratio of water to pentylene glycol can be from about 9:1 to about 11:1 based on the total weight of the composition.

In another embodiment, there is disclosed a topical skin care composition that includes an one of or combination of the aforementioned extracts in combination with any one of, any combination of, or all of the following ingredients: water; disodium EDTA; citric acid; pentylene glycol; capryl glycol; sodium cocoamphodiacetate; or sodium methyl cocoyl taurate. The concentrations of these ingredients can range from 0.00001 to 99% by weight or volume of the composition or any integer or range derivable therein as explained in other portions of this specification which are incorporated into this paragraph by reference. In particular aspects, the concentration of water can be at least 35% to 80% by weight of water. The ratio of water to pentylene glycol can be from about 12:1 to 14:1 based on the total weight of the composition. The ratio of water to sodium cocoamphodiacetate can be from about 8:1 to about 11:1 based on the total weight of the composition. The ratio of water to sodium methyl cocoyl taurate can be from about 2:1 to about 4:1 based on the total weight of the composition. The ratio of sodium methyl cocoyl taurate to sodium cocoamphodiacetate can be from about 2:1 to about 4:1 based on the total weight of the composition.

In one non-limiting aspect of the present invention there is disclosed a method of treating skin comprising topically applying to skin in need thereof a compositing comprising an extract fromKunzea ericoides, Quassia undulata, Diospyros mespiliformis, Khaya senegalensis, Biophytum petersianum, Detarium microcarpum, Crossopteryx febrofiga, Allophylus africanus, Burkea africana, Nauclea latifolia, Bombax costatum, Buchanania reticulata, Melanorrhoea laccifera, Machilus odoratissimus, Spondias pinnata, Canthium dicoccum, Parinari annamensis, Aporosa tetrapleura, Knema globularia, Garcinia gaudichaudii, Randia dasycarpa, Capparis micrantha, orGarcinia benthamior any combination thereof or at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, or 23 of the extracts in a single composition, and a dermatologically acceptable vehicle, wherein topical application of the composition to skin in need thereof treats the skin condition. Such extracts can be from the whole plant or a part of the plant (e.g., leaf, stem, root, flower, seed, bark, fruit, sap, etc.). In particular instances, the extracts are from the leaf, bark and or root of the plant. The composition is capable of inhibiting COX-1, COX-2, MMP-1, lipoxygenase, tyrosinase, TNF-α, and/or B16 melanogenesis enzymes, stimulating collagen synthesis, and/or activating the binding site of alpha-2 adrenergic receptors. The composition can be applied to a fine line or wrinkle, erythemic skin, dry, flaky, or itchy skin, skin having an uneven skin tone or melasmic skin, inflamed skin, and other skin associated disorders disclosed throughout this specification. Erythema can be caused by skin sunburn, electrical treatments of skin, skin burns, contact allergies, systemic allergies, skin toxicity, exercise, insect stings, bacterial infection, viral infection, fungal infection, protozoa infection, massage, windburn, etc.

As noted above, the inventors surprisingly discovered various combinations of extracts that produce a wide range of skin benefits. Such combinations include: (1)Quassia undulataandMelanorrhoea laccifera; (2)Quassia undulata, Buchanania reticulata, andCanthium dicoccum; and/or (3)Quassia undulata, Aporosa tetrapleura, andCanthium dicoccum, which have been found to work well in providing a multi-functional/multi beneficial skin treatment composition, as such combinations provide a wide range of benefits ranging from COX-1 inhibition, COX-2 inhibition, antioxidant activity, MMP-1 inhibition, lipoxygenase inhibition, tyrosinase inhibition, TNF-α inhibition, stimulation of collagen synthesis, and B16 melanogenesis inhibition. Further combinations includeKunzea ericoidesleaf extract,Quassia undulataleaf extract, andGarcinia gaudichaudiileaf extract results in a composition that has a wide variety of benefits such as inhibition of COX-1, COX-2, MMP-1, lipoxygenase, tyrosinase, TNF-α, and B16 melanogenesis enzymes, while also stimulating collagen synthesis and activating the binding site of alpha-2 adrenergic receptors.

In still another aspect of the present invention there is disclosed a method of treating dry, flaky, or itchy skin or reducing the appearance of uneven skin tone comprising topically applying a composition to dry, flaky, or itchy skin or to skin having an uneven skin tone, wherein the composition includes an extract selected fromKunzea ericoides, Quassia undulata, Diospyros mespiliformis, Khaya senegalensis, Biophytum petersianum, Detarium microcarpum, Crossopteryx febrofiga, Allophylus africanus, Burkea africana, Nauclea latifolia, Bombax costatum, Buchanania reticulata, Melanorrhoea laccifera, Machilus odoratissimus, Spondias pinnata, Canthium dicoccum, Parinari annamensis, Aporosa tetrapleura, Knema globularia, Garcinia gaudichaudii, Randia dasycarpa, Capparis micrantha, orGarcinia benthamior any combination thereof or at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, or 23 of the extracts in a single composition, and a dermatologically acceptable vehicle, wherein topical application of the composition to skin in need thereof treats the skin condition. Such extracts can be from the whole plant or a part of the plant (e.g., leaf, stem, root, flower, seed, bark, fruit, sap, etc.). In particular instances, the extracts are from the leaf, bark and or root of the plant. The composition is capable of inhibiting COX-1, COX-2, MMP-1, lipoxygenase, tyrosinase, TNF-α, and/or B16 melanogenesis enzymes, stimulating collagen synthesis, and/or activating the binding site of alpha-2 adrenergic receptors.

Also disclosed is a method of reducing the appearance of fine lines or wrinkles comprising topically applying a composition to skin having fine lines or wrinkles, wherein the composition includes an extract selected from the group consisting of:Kunzea ericoides, Quassia undulata, Diospyros mespiliformis, Khaya senegalensis, Biophytum petersianum, Detarium microcarpum, Crossopteryx febrofiga, Allophylus africanus, Burkea africana, Nauclea latifolia, Bombax costatum, Buchanania reticulata, Melanorrhoea laccifera, Machilus odoratissimus, Spondias pinnata, Canthium dicoccum, Parinari annamensis, Aporosa tetrapleura, Knema globularia, Garcinia gaudichaudii, Randia dasycarpa, Capparis micrantha, orGarcinia benthamior any combination thereof or at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, or 23 of the extracts in a single composition, and a dermatologically acceptable vehicle, wherein topical application of the composition to skin in need thereof treats the skin condition. Such extracts can be from the whole plant or a part of the plant (e.g., leaf, stem, root, flower, seed, bark, fruit, sap, etc.). In particular instances, the extracts are from the leaf, bark and or root of the plant. The composition is capable of inhibiting COX-1, COX-2, MMP-1, lipoxygenase, tyrosinase, TNF-α, and/or B16 melanogenesis enzymes, stimulating collagen synthesis, and/or activating the binding site of alpha-2 adrenergic receptors.

In one embodiment of the present invention there is disclosed a method of reducing the appearance of symptoms associated with erythema (e.g., erythemic skin, sensitive skin, inflamed skin) comprising topically applying a composition to erythemic, sensitive, or inflamed skin wherein the composition includes an extract selected fromKunzea ericoides, Quassia undulata, Diospyros mespiliformis, Khaya senegalensis, Biophytum petersianum, Detarium microcarpum, Crossopteryx febrofiga, Allophylus africanus, Burkea africana, Nauclea latifolia, Bombax costatum, Buchanania reticulata, Melanorrhoea laccifera, Machilus odoratissimus, Spondias pinnata, Canthium dicoccum, Parinari annamensis, Aporosa tetrapleura, Knema globularia, Garcinia gaudichaudii, Randia dasycarpa, Capparis micrantha,orGarcinia benthamior any combination thereof or at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, or 23 of the extracts in a single composition, and a dermatologically acceptable vehicle, wherein topical application of the composition to skin in need thereof treats the skin condition. Such extracts can be from the whole plant or a part of the plant (e.g., leaf, stem, root, flower, seed, bark, fruit, sap, etc.). In particular instances, the extracts are from the leaf, bark and or root of the plant. The composition is capable of inhibiting COX-1, COX-2, MMP-1, lipoxygenase, tyrosinase, TNF-α, and/or B16 melanogenesis enzymes, stimulating collagen synthesis, and/or activating the binding site of alpha-2 adrenergic receptors.

In a more general sense there is disclosed a method of treating or preventing a skin condition comprising topically applying a composition to skin having a skin condition, wherein the composition includes an extract selected from the group consisting ofKunzea ericoides, Quassia undulata, Diospyros mespiliformis, Khaya senegalensis, Biophytum petersianum, Detarium microcarpum, Crossopteryx febrofiga, Allophylus africanus, Burkea africana, Nauclea latifolia, Bombax costatum, Buchanania reticulata, Melanorrhoea laccifera, Machilus odoratissimus, Spondias pinnata, Canthium dicoccum, Parinari annamensis, Aporosa tetrapleura, Knema globularia, Garcinia gaudichaudii, Randia dasycarpa, Capparis micrantha, orGarcinia benthamior any combination thereof or at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, or 23 of the extracts in a single composition, and a dermatologically acceptable vehicle, wherein topical application of the composition to skin in need thereof treats the skin condition. Such extracts can be from the whole plant or a part of the plant (e.g., leaf, stem, root, flower, seed, bark, fruit, sap, etc.). In particular instances, the extracts are from the leaf, bark and or root of the plant. The composition is capable of inhibiting COX-1, COX-2, MMP-1, lipoxygenase, tyrosinase, TNF-α, and/or B16 melanogenesis enzymes, stimulating collagen synthesis, and/or activating the binding site of alpha-2 adrenergic receptors. The compositions described throughout the specification and claims can be used with this method. Non-limiting examples of skin conditions include dry skin, itchy skin, inflamed skin, erythema, sensitive skin, pruritus, spider veins, lentigo, age spots, senile purpura, keratosis, melasma, blotches, fine lines or wrinkles, nodules, sun damaged skin, dermatitis (including, but not limited to seborrheic dermatitis, nummular dermatitis, contact dermatitis, atopic dermatitis, exfoliative dermatitis, perioral dermatitis, and stasis dermatitis), psoriasis, folliculitis, rosacea, acne, impetigo, erysipelas, erythrasma, eczema, sun burns, burned skin, open wounds, skin-inflammatory skin conditions, etc. In certain non-limiting aspects, the skin condition can be caused by exposure to UV light, age, irradiation, chronic sun exposure, environmental pollutants, air pollution, wind, cold, heat, chemicals, disease pathologies, smoking, or lack of nutrition. The skin can be facial skin or non-facial skin (e.g., arms, legs, hands, chest, back, feet, etc.). The method can further comprise identifying a person in need of skin treatment. The person can be a male or female. The age of the person can be at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95, or more years old, or any range derivable therein. The method can also include topically applying an amount effective to: increase the stratum corneum turnover rate of the skin; increase collagen synthesis in fibroblasts; increase cellular anti-oxidant defense mechanisms (e.g., exogenous additions of anti-oxidants can bolster, replenish, or prevent the loss of cellular antioxidants such as catalase and glutathione in skin cells (e.g., keratinocytes, melanocytes, langerhans cells, etc.) which will reduce or prevent oxidative damage to the skin, cellular, proteins, and lipids); inhibit melanin production in melanocytes; reduce or prevent oxidative damage to skin (including reducing the amount lipid peroxides and/or protein oxidation in the skin).

In certain embodiments, compositions of the present invention can decrease the amount of internal oxidation and/or external oxidative damage in a cell. In other aspects, the compositions can increase collagen synthesis in a cell. The compositions can also reduce skin inflammation, such as by reducing inflammatory cytokine production in a cell. Non-limiting examples of such cells include human epidermal keratinocyte, human fibroblast dermal cell, human melanocytes, three dimensional human cell-derived in vitro tissue equivalents comprising human keratinocytes, human fibroblasts, or human melanocytes, or any combination thereof (e.g., combination of human keratinocytes and human fibroblasts or a combination of human keratinocytes and human melanocytes).

Also disclosed is a method of treating hyperpigmentation comprising applying the compositions of the present invention to the skin. The method can also comprise identifying a person in need of treating hyperpigmentation and applying the composition to a portion of the skin exhibiting hyperpigmentation. Additional methods contemplated by the inventors include methods for reducing the appearance of an age spot, a skin discoloration, or a freckle, reducing or preventing the appearance of fine lines or wrinkles in skin, or increasing the firmness of skin by applying the compositions of the present invention to skin in need of such treatment.

In yet another aspect of the present invention there is disclosed a method of treating or preventing a wide variety of diseases comprising administering to a patient in need of treatment a composition comprising an extract selected fromKunzea ericoides, Quassia undulata, Diospyros mespiliformis, Khaya senegalensis, Biophytum petersianum, Detarium microcarpum, Crossopteryx febrofiga, Allophylus africanus, Burkea africana, Nauclea latifolia, Bombax costatum, Buchanania reticulata, Melanorrhoea laccifera, Machilus odoratissimus, Spondias pinnata, Canthium dicoccum, Parinari annamensis, Aporosa tetrapleura, Knema globularia, Garcinia gaudichaudii, Randia dasycarpa, Capparis micrantha, orGarcinia benthamior any combination thereof or at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, or 23 of the extracts. Such extracts can be from the whole plant or a part of the plant (e.g., leaf, stem, root, flower, seed, bark, fruit, sap, etc.). In particular instances, the extracts are from the leaf, bark and or root of the plant. The composition is capable of inhibiting COX-1, COX-2, MMP-1, lipoxygenase, tyrosinase, TNF-α, and/or B16 melanogenesis enzymes, stimulating collagen synthesis, and/or activating the binding site of alpha-2 adrenergic receptors. The composition can be formulated as a topical composition, an ingestible composition, an injectible composition, an aerosolized composition, etc. Non-limiting examples of diseases that can be treated or prevented with such compositions include AIDS, autoimmune diseases (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, diabetes—insulin-dependent and non-independent, systemic lupus erythematosus and Graves disease), cancer (e.g., malignant, benign, metastatic, precancer), cardiovascular diseases (e.g., heart disease or coronary artery disease, stroke—ischemic and hemorrhagic, and rheumatic heart disease), diseases of the nervous system, and infection by pathogenic microorganisms (e.g., Athlete's Foot, Chickenpox, Common cold, Diarrheal diseases, Flu, Genital herpes, Malaria, Meningitis, Pneumonia, Sinusitis, Skin diseases, Strep throat, Tuberculosis, Urinary tract infections, Vaginal infections, Viral hepatitis), inflammation (e.g., allergy, asthma), prion diseases (e.g., CID, kuru, GSS, FFI), obesity, etc.

In even a further embodiment there is disclosed a method of treating or preventing hair loss comprising administering to a patient in need of treatment a composition comprising an extract selected fromKunzea ericoides, Quassia undulata, Diospyros mespiliformis, Khaya senegalensis, Biophytum petersianum, Detarium microcarpum, Crossopteryx febrofiga, Allophylus africanus, Burkea africana, Nauclea latifolia, Bombax costatum, Buchanania reticulata, Melanorrhoea laccifera, Machilus odoratissimus, Spondias pinnata, Canthium dicoccum, Parinari annamensis, Aporosa tetrapleura, Knema globularia, Garcinia gaudichaudii, Randia dasycarpa, Capparis micrantha, orGarcinia benthamior any combination thereof or at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, or 23 of the extracts in a single composition, and a pharmaceutically (whether topical, oral, injectible, etc.) or dermatologically acceptable vehicle, wherein administering to the patient in need thereof prevents or treats hair loss. Preventing or treating hair loss can include stimulating hair growth on the scalp, in eyebrows, in eyelashes, or on other regions of the body where hair growth is desired. Such extracts can be from the whole plant or a part of the plant (e.g., leaf, stem, root, flower, seed, bark, fruit, sap, etc.). In particular instances, the extracts are from the leaf, bark and or root of the plant. The composition is capable of inhibiting COX-1, COX-2, MMP-1, lipoxygenase, tyrosinase, TNF-α, and/or B16 melanogenesis enzymes, stimulating collagen synthesis, and/or activating the binding site of alpha-2 adrenergic receptors.

Also disclosed is a composition comprising an extract ofKunzea ericoides, Quassia undulata, Diospyros mespiliformis, Khaya senegalensis, Biophytum petersianum, Detarium microcarpum, Crossopteryx febrofiga, Allophylus africanus, Burkea africana, Nauclea latifolia, Bombax costatum, Buchanania reticulata, Melanorrhoea laccifera, Machilus odoratissimus, Spondias pinnata, Canthium dicoccum, Parinari annamensis, Aporosa tetrapleura, Knema globularia, Garcinia gaudichaudii, Randia dasycarpa, Capparis micrantha, orGarcinia benthamior any combination thereof or at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, or 23 of the extracts in a single composition. The composition can take the form of a pill, liquid gel cap, or tablet. The composition can be an injectable solution (e.g., for intravenous delivery). The composition can be in the form of a neutraceutical. The extract can be an aqueous extract. The aqueous extract can include an alcohol, a glycol (e.g., butylene glycol, propylene glycol, or a combination thereof) water and/or oil.

In one instance there is disclosed a multi-functional topical skin care composition comprising: (a) ingredients comprising: (i) an inhibitor of COX-1 selected from the group consisting of: an extract ofQuassia undulate; an extract ofBiophytum petersianum; an extract ofAllophylus africanus; an extract ofBuchanania reticulate; an extract ofMelanorrhoea laccifera; an extract ofCanthium dicoccum; an extract ofAporosa tetrapleura; and any combination thereof; (ii) an inhibitor of COX-2 selected from the group consisting of: an extract ofBuchanania reticulate; an extract ofMelanorrhoea laccifera; an extract ofAporosa tetrapleura, and any combination thereof; (iii) an antioxidant selected from the group consisting of: an extract ofQuassia undulate; an extract ofBiophytum petersianum; an extract ofBuchanania reticulate; an extract ofMelanorrhoea laccifera; an extract ofAporosa tetrapleura; and any combination thereof; (iv) an inhibitor of MMP-1 selected from the group consisting of: an extract ofQuassia undulate; an extract ofBuchanania reticulate; an extract ofMelanorrhoea laccifera; an extract ofAporosa tetrapleura; and any combination thereof; (v) an inhibitor of lipoxygenase comprising an extract ofQuassia undulata; (vi) an inhibitor of tyorsinase selected from the group consisting of: an extract ofQuassia undulate; an extract ofBiophytum petersianum; an extract ofAllophylus africanus; and any combination thereof; (vii) an inhibitor of TNF-α selected from the group consisting of: an extract fromQuassia undulate; an extract ofAllophylus africanus; an extract ofCanthium dicoccum; an extract ofAporosa tetrapleura; and any combination thereof; (viii) a stimulator of collagen synthesis selected from the group consisting of:Melanorrhoea laccifera; an extract ofCanthium dicoccum; and any combination thereof; and (ix) an inhibitor of B16 melanogenesis comprising an extract fromQuassia undulate, and (b) a dermatologically acceptable vehicle. In one aspect, the composition comprises an extract fromQuassia undulateand at least a second extract selected from the group consisting of:Buchanania reticulate; Melanorrhoea laccifera; Aporosa tetrapleura; Canthium dicoccum, and any combination thereof. In another aspect, the composition comprises an extract fromQuassia undulateandMelanorrhoea laccifera. In still another aspect, the composition comprises an extract fromQuassia undulata, Buchanania reticulata, andCanthium dicoccum. In even another aspect, the multi-functional topical skin care composition can of claim2, comprising an extract fromQuassia undulata, Aporosa tetrapleura, andCanthium dicoccum. The extracts can be obtained from all parts of the plant, with the leaf being particularly interesting. The extracts can individually or combinatorially be present in amounts from 0.01% to 20% by weight of said individual extracts or combination of said extracts. The compostion can be formulated in a variety of ways disclosed throughout the specification (e.g., a lotion, cream, gel, serum, emulsion, or powder) The extracts can be alcoholic extracts (e.g., methanol-based extracts). The multi-functional topical skin care composition can further include a moisturizing agent or a humectants and/or at least 40% w/w of water.

Kits that include the compositions of the present invention are also contemplated. In certain embodiments, the composition is comprised in a container. The container can be a bottle, dispenser, or package. The container can dispense a pre-determined amount of the composition. In certain aspects, the compositions is dispensed in a spray, dollop, or liquid. The container can include indicia on its surface. The indicia can be a word, an abbreviation, a picture, or a symbol.

Also contemplated is a product comprising a composition of the present invention. In non-limiting aspects, the product can be a cosmetic product. The cosmetic product can be those described in other sections of this specification or those known to a person of skill in the art. Non-limiting examples of products include a moisturizer, a cream, a lotion, a skin softener, a foundation, a night cream, a lipstick, a cleanser, a toner, a sunscreen, a mask, an anti-aging product, a deodorant, an antiperspirant, a perfume, a cologne, etc.

It is also contemplated that compositions of the present invention can be included into food-based products (e.g., beverages, fortified water, energy drinks, nutritional drinks, solid foods, vitamins, supplements, etc.) and pharmaceutical products (e.g., pills, tablets, gel capsules, injectible solutions, drugs, etc.). “Supplements” can include vitamins, minerals, herbs or other botanicals, amino acids, enzymes and metabolites. Such supplements are suitable for oral consumption and can be administered orally.

It is contemplated that any embodiment discussed in this specification can be implemented with respect to any method or composition of the invention, and vice versa. Furthermore, compositions of the invention can be used to achieve methods of the invention.

In one embodiment, the topical skin compositions of the current invention are pharmaceutically elegant. “Pharmaceutically elegant” describes a composition that has particular tactile properties which feel pleasant on the skin (e.g., compositions that are not too watery or greasy, compositions that have a silky texture, compositions that are non-tacky or sticky, etc.). Pharmaceutically elegant can also relate to the creaminess or lubricity properties of the composition or to the moisture retaining properties of the composition.

“Keratinous tissue” includes keratin-containing layers disposed as the outermost protective covering of mammals and includes, but is not limited to, skin, hair and nails.

“Topical application” means to apply or spread a composition onto the surface of keratinous tissue. “Topical skin composition” includes compositions suitable for topical application on keratinous tissue. Such compositions are typically dermatologically-acceptable in that they do not have undue toxicity, incompatibility, instability, allergic response, and the like, when applied to skin. Topical skin care compositions of the present invention can have a selected viscosity to avoid significant dripping or pooling after application to skin.

The term “about” or “approximately” are defined as being close to as understood by one of ordinary skill in the art, and in one non-limiting embodiment the terms are defined to be within 10%, preferably within 5%, more preferably within 1%, and most preferably within 0.5%.

The terms “inhibiting” or “reducing” or any variation of these terms, when used in the claims and/or the specification includes any measurable decrease or complete inhibition to achieve a desired result.

The term “effective,” as that term is used in the specification and/or claims, means adequate to accomplish a desired, expected, or intended result.

The use of the word “a” or “an” when used in conjunction with the term “comprising” in the claims and/or the specification may mean “one,” but it is also consistent with the meaning of “one or more,” “at least one,” and “one or more than one.”

The words “comprising” (and any form of comprising, such as “comprise” and “comprises”), “having” (and any form of having, such as “have” and “has”), “including” (and any form of including, such as “includes” and “include”) or “containing” (and any form of containing, such as “contains” and “contain”) are inclusive or open-ended and do not exclude additional, unrecited elements or method steps.

Other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description. It should be understood, however, that the detailed description and the examples, while indicating specific embodiments of the invention, are given by way of illustration only. Additionally, it is contemplated that changes and modifications within the spirit and scope of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from this detailed description.

Description of Illustrative Embodiments

In today's image conscious society, people are continually looking for a product that can improve the visual appearance of their skin. Often times, aged skin, uneven skin tone, or skin damaged by environmental factors such as UV light, chronic sun exposure, environmental pollutants, chemicals, disease pathologies, or smoking, is associated with unattractive skin. Previous attempts to improve the visual appearance of skin has been shown to have various drawbacks such as skin irritation and prolonged recovery periods.

The present invention is an effective alternative to the use of compositions and ingredients currently used to treat aged skin, environmentally-damaged skin, uneven skin tone, and other skin conditions. In one non-limiting embodiment, the compositions of the present invention can be used to treat irritation of the skin and to improve the skin's visual appearance, physiological functions, clinical properties, or biophysical properties by providing a composition of the present invention to an area of the skin that needs such treatment. As noted throughout this specification, the compositions can include any one of an extract fromKunzea ericoides, Quassia undulata, Diospyros mespiliformis, Khaya senegalensis, Biophytum petersianum, Detarium microcarpum, Crossopteryx febrofiga, Allophylus africanus, Burkea africana, Nauclea latifolia, Bombax costatum, Buchanania reticulata, Melanorrhoea laccifera, Machilus odoratissimus, Spondias pinnata, Canthium dicoccum, Parinari annamensis, Aporosa tetrapleura, Knema globularia, Garcinia gaudichaudii, Randia dasycarpa, Capparis micrantha, orGarcinia benthamior any combination thereof or at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, or 23 of the extracts in a single composition. These and other non-limiting aspects of the present invention are described in further detail below. Particular combinations of extracts (as identified in the summary of the invention, examples, and claims) can be useful in multi-purpose/multi-benefit skin treatment compositions.

A. Extracts

1.Kunzea ericoides

Kunzea ericoidesis considered a shrub or small tree and can produce flowers, fruit, and seeds. It is native to Australia and New Zealand.

The inventors have discovered that extracts ofKunzea ericoideshave several biological activities, which can be beneficial to skin. Non-limiting examples of some of these biological activities include inhibiting TNF-α activity and stimulating collagen production in the skin. All of the different portions ofKunzea ericoidescan be used to obtain the corresponding extract. Non-limiting examples include its leaves, stems, bark, roots, fruit, flowers or flower buds, kernels, seeds, sap, and the entire plant (i.e., whole plant).

2.Quassia undulata

Quassia undulatais a medium to large sized tree. It has leaves, bark, and can produce flowers and seeds. It is native to western Africa and can be found in Guinea, West Cameroons, Zaire (or Democratic Republic of the Congo), and Angola.

The inventors have discovered that extracts ofQuassia undulatahave several biological activities, which can be beneficial to skin. Non-limiting examples of some of these biological activities include antioxidant properties and inhibition of COX-1, MMP-1, lipoxygenase, tyrosinase, TNF-α, and B16 melanogenesis activity. All of the different portions ofQuassia undulatacan be used to obtain the corresponding extract. Non-limiting examples include its leaves, stems, bark, roots, fruit, flowers or flower buds, kernels, seeds, sap, and the entire plant (i.e., whole plant).

3.Diospyros mespiliformis

Diospyros mespiliformisis a large tree that can produce flowers, fruit, and seeds. It is native to Africa and can be located from Ethiopia to south of Swaziland.

The inventors have discovered that extracts ofDiospyros mespiliformishave several biological activities, which can be beneficial to skin. Non-limiting examples of some of these biological activities include antioxidant properties, stimulation of collagen production, and inhibition of COX-1, MMP-1, tyrosinase, and TNF-α activity. All of the different portions ofDiospyros mespiliformiscan be used to obtain the corresponding extract. Non-limiting examples include its leaves, stems, bark, roots, fruit, flowers or flower buds, kernels, seeds, sap, and the entire plant (i.e., whole plant).

4.Khaya senegalensis

Khaya senegalensisis a large tree that can produce flowers, fruit, and seeds. It is native to Africa and can be located in West Africa (e.g., Senegal). It can also be located in Northern Australia.

The inventors have discovered that extracts ofKhaya senegalensishave several biological activities, which can be beneficial to skin. Non-limiting examples of some of these biological activities include antioxidant properties, stimulation of collagen production, and inhibition of COX-1, COX-2, MMP-1, and tyrosinase activity. All of the different portions ofKhaya senegalensiscan be used to obtain the corresponding extract. Non-limiting examples include its leaves, stems, bark, roots, fruit, flowers or flower buds, kernels, seeds, sap, and the entire plant (i.e., whole plant).

5.Biophytum petersianum

Biophytum petersianumis an annual herb that can reach upwards of 40 cm in height. The stem has a hairy appearance with a terminal rosette of pinnate leaves. It typically includes 3-10 pairs of leaflets, decreasing in size with the terminal pair largest and can produce yellow or orange colored flowers. This plant is native to Africa and can be found in Mozambique and Zimbabwe.

The inventors have discovered that extracts ofBiophytum petersianumhave several biological activities, which can be beneficial to skin. Non-limiting examples of some of these biological activities include antioxidant properties and inhibition of COX-1 and tyrosinase activity. All of the different portions ofBiophytum petersianumcan be used to obtain the corresponding extract. Non-limiting examples include its leaves, stems, bark, roots, fruit, flowers or flower buds, kernels, seeds, sap, and the entire plant (i.e., whole plant).

6. Detarium microcarpum

Diospyros mespiliformisis a large tree that can produce flowers, fruit, and seeds. It is native to Africa and can be located from Ethiopia to south of Swaziland.

The inventors have discovered that extracts ofDiospyros mespiliformishave several biological activities, which can be beneficial to skin. Non-limiting examples of some of these biological activities include antioxidant properties, stimulation of collagen production, and inhibition of COX-1, MMP-1, tyrosinase, TNF-α, and B16 melanogenesis activity. All of the different portions ofDiospyros mespiliformiscan be used to obtain the corresponding extract. Non-limiting examples include its leaves, stems, bark, roots, fruit, flowers or flower buds, kernels, seeds, sap, and the entire plant (i.e., whole plant).

7.Crossopteryx febrofiga

Crossopteryx febrofigais considered a shrub or small tree that can produce flowers, fruit, and seeds. It is native to Africa and can be located in tropical African countries.

The inventors have discovered that extracts ofCrossopteryx febrofigahave several biological activities, which can be beneficial to skin. Non-limiting examples of some of these biological activities include antioxidant properties and inhibition of COX-1, MMP-1, tyrosinase, and TNF-α activity. All of the different portions ofCrossopteryx febrofigacan be used to obtain the corresponding extract. Non-limiting examples include its leaves, stems, bark, roots, fruit, flowers or flower buds, kernels, seeds, sap, and the entire plant (i.e., whole plant).

8.Allophylus africanus

Allophylus africanusis considered a shrub or small tree. It has leaves and can produce small creamy-yellow flowers and fruit, which has a red to black color when ripe. This plant is native to Africa and can be found throughout tropical Africa extending to Zimbabwe and South Africa.

The inventors have discovered that extracts ofAllophylus africanushave several biological activities, which can be beneficial to skin. Non-limiting examples of some of these biological activities include inhibition of COX-1, tyrosinase, and TNF-α activity. All of the different portions ofAllophylus africanuscan be used to obtain the corresponding extract. Non-limiting examples include its leaves, stems, bark, roots, fruit, flowers or flower buds, kernels, seeds, sap, and the entire plant (i.e., whole plant).

9.Burkea africana

Burkea africanais a medium-sized tree that can produce creamy white flowers, fruit, and seeds. It is native to Tropical Africa and can be found in Chad, Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Zaire, Benin, Burkina Faso, Côte d′Ivoire, Ghana, Guinea, Mali, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, Togo, Angola, Malawi, Mozambique, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia, South Africa in the Transvaal.

The inventors have discovered that extracts ofBurkea africanahave several biological activities, which can be beneficial to skin. Non-limiting examples of some of these biological activities include antioxidant properties and inhibition of COX-1, MMP-1, and tyrosinase activity. All of the different portions ofBurkea africanacan be used to obtain the corresponding extract. Non-limiting examples include its leaves, stems, bark, roots, fruit, flowers or flower buds, kernels, seeds, sap, and the entire plant (i.e., whole plant).

10.Nauclea latifolia

Nauclea latifoliais considered a shrub or small tree that can produce white flowers, fruit, and seeds. It is native to West Tropical Africa, and can be found in Angola, Cameroon, and Uganda.

The inventors have discovered that extracts ofNauclea latifoliahave several biological activities, which can be beneficial to skin. Non-limiting examples of some of these biological activities include antioxidant properties, stimulation of collagen production, and inhibition of COX-1 and tyrosinase activity. All of the different portions ofNauclea latifoliacan be used to obtain the corresponding extract. Non-limiting examples include its leaves, stems, bark, roots, fruit, flowers or flower buds, kernels, seeds, sap, and the entire plant (i.e., whole plant).

11.Bombax costatum

Bombax costatumis a tree that can produce flowers, fruit, and seeds. It is native to Africa and can be located in Senegal, Guinea, Ghana, Nigeria, and Chad.

The inventors have discovered that extracts ofBombax costatumhave several biological activities, which can be beneficial to skin. Non-limiting examples of some of these biological activities include antioxidant properties, stimulation of collagen production, and inhibition of COX-1, tyrosinase, and TNF-α activity. All of the different portions ofBombax costatumcan be used to obtain the corresponding extract. Non-limiting examples include its leaves, stems, bark, roots, fruit, flowers or flower buds, kernels, seeds, sap, and the entire plant (i.e., whole plant).

12.Buchanania reticulata

Buchanania reticulatais a tree that can produce flowers, fruit, and seeds. It is native to the Pacific, Eastern Indonesia, and the Philippines.

The inventors have discovered that extracts ofBuchanania reticulatahave several biological activities, which can be beneficial to skin. Non-limiting examples of some of these biological activities include antioxidant properties and inhibition of COX-1, COX-2, and MMP-1 activity. All of the different portions ofBuchanania reticulatacan be used to obtain the corresponding extract. Non-limiting examples include its leaves, stems, bark, roots, fruit, flowers or flower buds, kernels, seeds, sap, and the entire plant (i.e., whole plant).

13.Melanorrhoea laccifera

Melanorrhoea lacciferais a tree. This plant is native to Vietnam.

The inventors have discovered that extracts ofMelanorrhoea lacciferahave several biological activities, which can be beneficial to skin. Non-limiting examples of some of these biological activities include antioxidant properties, stimulation of collagen production, and inhibition of COX-1, COX-2, and MMP-1 activity. All of the different portions ofMelanorrhoea lacciferacan be used to obtain the corresponding extract. Non-limiting examples include its leaves, stems, bark, roots, fruit, flowers or flower buds, kernels, seeds, sap, and the entire plant (i.e., whole plant).

14.Machilus odoratissimus

Machilus odoratissimusis a tree. This plant is native to the Himalaya's, Singapore, Java, Sumatra, and Cochin China.

The inventors have discovered that extracts ofMachilus odoratissimushave several biological activities, which can be beneficial to skin. Non-limiting examples of some of these biological activities include inhibition of COX-1, COX-2, MMP-1, and TNF-α activity. All of the different portions ofMachilus odoratissimuscan be used to obtain the corresponding extract. Non-limiting examples include its leaves, stems, bark, roots, fruit, flowers or flower buds, kernels, seeds, sap, and the entire plant (i.e., whole plant).

15.Spondias pinnata

Spondias pinnatais a tree that can produce flowers, fruit, and seeds. It is native to Tropical Asia and can be found in countries such as Malaysia, Thailand, India, and China.

The inventors have discovered that extracts ofSpondias pinnatahave several biological activities, which can be beneficial to skin. Non-limiting examples of some of these biological activities include antioxidant properties, stimulating collagen production, and inhibition of COX-1 and TNF-α activity. All of the different portions ofSpondias pinnatacan be used to obtain the corresponding extract. Non-limiting examples include its leaves, stems, bark, roots, fruit, flowers or flower buds, kernels, seeds, sap, and the entire plant (i.e., whole plant).

16.Canthium dicoccum

Canthium dicoccumis a tree that can reach upwards of 12 meters in height. It has leaves and can produce flowers, fruit, and seeds. This plant is native to Malaysia, Nepal, India, and China.

The inventors have discovered that extracts ofCanthium dicoccumhave several biological activities, which can be beneficial to skin. Non-limiting examples of some of these biological activities include stimulating collagen production and inhibition of COX-1 and TNF-α activity. All of the different portions ofCanthium dicoccumcan be used to obtain the corresponding extract. Non-limiting examples include its leaves, stems, bark, roots, fruit, flowers or flower buds, kernels, seeds, sap, and the entire plant (i.e., whole plant).

17.Parinari annamensis

Parinari annamensisis a tree that can produce flowers, fruit, and seeds. It is native to Vietnam.

The inventors have discovered that extracts ofParinari annamensishave several biological activities, which can be beneficial to skin. Non-limiting examples of some of these biological activities include antioxidant properties, stimulating collagen production, and inhibition of MMP-1 activity. All of the different portions ofParinari annamensiscan be used to obtain the corresponding extract. Non-limiting examples include its leaves, stems, bark, roots, fruit, flowers or flower buds, kernels, seeds, sap, and the entire plant (i.e., whole plant).

18.Aporosa tetrapleura

Aporosa tetrapleurais a medium sized tree. This plant is native to Vietnam.

The inventors have discovered that extracts ofAporosa tetrapleurahave several biological activities, which can be beneficial to skin. Non-limiting examples of some of these biological activities include antioxidant properties and inhibition of COX-1, COX-2, MMP-1, and TNF-α activity. All of the different portions ofAporosa tetrapleuracan be used to obtain the corresponding extract. Non-limiting examples include its leaves, stems, bark, roots, fruit, flowers or flower buds, kernels, seeds, sap, and the entire plant (i.e., whole plant).

19.Knema globularia

Knema globulariais an evergreen tree that can reach up to 20 meters in height. It can produce flowers, fruit, and seeds. The bark is smooth and has a dark grey-brown color. This plant is native to Burma, Southern China, Malay Peninsula, Indonesia, Thailand, and Laos.

The inventors have discovered that extracts ofKnema globulariahave several biological activities, which can be beneficial to skin. Non-limiting examples of some of these biological activities include antioxidant properties, binding of alpha-2 adrenergic receptor, and inhibition of MMP-1, tyrosinase, and TNF-α activity. All of the different portions ofKnema globulariacan be used to obtain the corresponding extract. Non-limiting examples include its leaves, stems, bark, roots, fruit, flowers or flower buds, kernels, seeds, sap, and the entire plant (i.e., whole plant).

20.Garcinia gaudichaudii

Garcinia gaudichaudiiis a small tree that can produce flowers, fruit, and seeds. It is native to Northern Malaysia.

The inventors have discovered that extracts ofGarcinia gaudichaudiihave several biological activities, which can be beneficial to skin. Non-limiting examples of some of these biological activities include antioxidant properties, binding of alpha-2 adrenergic receptor, and inhibition of COX-2 and TNF-α activity. All of the different portions ofGarcinia gaudichaudiican be used to obtain the corresponding extract. Non-limiting examples include its leaves, stems, bark, roots, fruit, flowers or flower buds, kernels, seeds, sap, and the entire plant (i.e., whole plant).

21.Randia dasycarpa

Randia dasycarpais a tree that can produce flowers, fruit, and seeds. It is native to Thailand.

The inventors have discovered that extracts ofRandia dasycarpahave several biological activities, which can be beneficial to skin. Non-limiting examples of some of these biological activities include binding of alpha-2 adrenergic receptor and inhibition of MMP-1 activity. All of the different portions ofRandia dasycarpacan be used to obtain the corresponding extract. Non-limiting examples include its leaves, stems, bark, roots, fruit, flowers or flower buds, kernels, seeds, sap, and the entire plant (i.e., whole plant).

22.Capparis micrantha

Capparis micranthais a shrub or tree that can produce flowers, fruit, and seeds. It is native to the Philippines.

The inventors have discovered that extracts ofCapparis micranthahave several biological activities, which can be beneficial to skin. Non-limiting examples of some of these biological activities include antioxidant properties, stimulating collagen production, and inhibition of COX-1, and lipoxygenase activity. All of the different portions ofCapparis micranthacan be used to obtain the corresponding extract. Non-limiting examples include its leaves, stems, bark, roots, fruit, flowers or flower buds, kernels, seeds, sap, and the entire plant (i.e., whole plant).

23.Garcinia benthami

Garcinia benthamiis tree that can reach up to 18 meters in height. It can produce flowers, fruit, and seeds. It is native to India and Sri Lanka.

The inventors have discovered that extracts ofGarcinia benthamihave several biological activities, which can be beneficial to skin. Non-limiting examples of some of these biological activities include antioxidant properties, stimulating collagen production, and inhibition of COX-1, MMP-1, lipoxygenase, and TNF-α activity. All of the different portions ofGarcinia benthamican be used to obtain the corresponding extract. Non-limiting examples include its leaves, stems, bark, roots, fruit, flowers or flower buds, kernels, seeds, sap, and the entire plant (i.e., whole plant).

24. Extraction Methods

A person of ordinary skill in the art would be able to isolate any one of the extracts identified above from parts of the corresponding plant by using any suitable method known in the art. In one non-limiting example, the plant (or any part of the plant such as the leaves, stems, bark, roots, fruit, flowers or flower buds, fruit, seeds, seed pods, sap, whole plant, etc.) can be disrupted by mechanical means which results in a puree. The puree is then processed to be substantially free of impurities or undesired solids. The puree can then be poured into a shallow vessel and quickly exposed to low temperature, i.e., flash frozen, for example at −20° C. or lower, preferably under a vacuum for removal of water content (lyophilization). The resultant extract can then be used in the compositions of the present invention.

In other aspects, aqueous, alcoholic, or oil based extraction techniques, or combinations thereof, can be used on the whole plant or any part thereof of (e.g., leaves, stems, bark, roots, fruit, flowers or flower buds, fruit, seeds, seed pods, whole plant, etc.) to produce an extract. In such a process, the desired part of the plant or the whole plant is crushed up (e.g., blender) and then subjected to a desired solvent (e.g., water, alcohol, water/alcohol, or oil based solvents) to obtain the desired extract. The extract can then be stored in liquid form, lyophilized, or subject to further processing techniques (e.g., heating, cooling, etc.). Extraction processes are well-known to those having ordinary skill in the extract field (e.g., maceration, infusion, percolation, digestion, decoction, hot continuous extraction, aqueous-alcoholic extract, counter current extract, microwave assisted extraction, ultrasound extraction, supercritical fluid extracts, phytonic extract (e.g., with hydro-flouro-carbon solvents), etc.

Additional extraction processes used by the inventors are described in the Examples.

B. Compositions of the Present Invention

1. Combinations and Amounts of Ingredients

It is contemplated that the compositions of the present invention can include an extract ofKunzea ericoides, Quassia undulata, Diospyros mespiliformis, Khaya senegalensis, Biophytum petersianum, Detarium microcarpum, Crossopteryx febrofiga, Allophylus africanus, Burkea africana, Nauclea latifolia, Bombax costatum, Buchanania reticulata, Melanorrhoea laccifera, Machilus odoratissimus, Spondias pinnata, Canthium dicoccum, Parinari annamensis, Aporosa tetrapleura, Knema globularia, Garcinia gaudichaudii, Randia dasycarpa, Capparis micrantha, orGarcinia benthamior any combination thereof or at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, or 23 of such extracts. The compositions can also include additional ingredients described throughout this specification. The concentrations of the plant extracts and/or additional ingredients can vary. In non-limiting embodiments, for example, the compositions can include in their final form, for example, at least about 0.0001%, 0.0002%, 0.0003%, 0.0004%, 0.0005%, 0.0006%, 0.0007%, 0.0008%, 0.0009%, 0.0010%, 0.0011%, 0.0012%, 0.0013%, 0.0014%, 0.0015%, 0.0016%, 0.0017%, 0.0018%, 0.0019%, 0.0020%, 0.0021%, 0.0022%, 0.0023%, 0.0024%, 0.0025%, 0.0026%, 0.0027%, 0.0028%, 0.0029%, 0.0030%, 0.0031%, 0.0032%, 0.0033%, 0.0034%, 0.0035%, 0.0036%, 0.0037%, 0.0038%, 0.0039%, 0.0040%, 0.0041%, 0.0042%, 0.0043%, 0.0044%, 0.0045%, 0.0046%, 0.0047%, 0.0048%, 0.0049%, 0.0050%, 0.0051%, 0.0052%, 0.0053%, 0.0054%, 0.0055%, 0.0056%, 0.0057%, 0.0058%, 0.0059%, 0.0060%, 0.0061%, 0.0062%, 0.0063%, 0.0064%, 0.0065%, 0.0066%, 0.0067%, 0.0068%, 0.0069%, 0.0070%, 0.0071%, 0.0072%, 0.0073%, 0.0074%, 0.0075%, 0.0076%, 0.0077%, 0.0078%, 0.0079%, 0.0080%, 0.0081%, 0.0082%, 0.0083%, 0.0084%, 0.0085%, 0.0086%, 0.0087%, 0.0088%, 0.0089%, 0.0090%, 0.0091%, 0.0092%, 0.0093%, 0.0094%, 0.0095%, 0.0096%, 0.0097%, 0.0098%, 0.0099%, 0.0100%, 0.0200%, 0.0250%, 0.0275%, 0.0300%, 0.0325%, 0.0350%, 0.0375%, 0.0400%, 0.0425%, 0.0450%, 0.0475%, 0.0500%, 0.0525%, 0.0550%, 0.0575%, 0.0600%, 0.0625%, 0.0650%, 0.0675%, 0.0700%, 0.0725%, 0.0750%, 0.0775%, 0.0800%, 0.0825%, 0.0850%, 0.0875%, 0.0900%, 0.0925%, 0.0950%, 0.0975%, 0.1000%, 0.1250%, 0.1500%, 0.1750%, 0.2000%, 0.2250%, 0.2500%, 0.2750%, 0.3000%, 0.3250%, 0.3500%, 0.3750%, 0.4000%, 0.4250%, 0.4500%, 0.4750%, 0.5000%, 0.5250%, 0.550%, 0.5750%, 0.6000%, 0.6250%, 0.6500%, 0.6750%, 0.7000%, 0.7250%, 0.7500%, 0.7750%, 0.8000%, 0.8250%, 0.8500%, 0.8750%, 0.9000%, 0.9250%, 0.9500%, 0.9750%, 1.0%, 1.1%, 1.2%, 1.3%, 1.4%, 1.5%, 1.6%, 1.7%, 1.8%, 1.9%, 2.0%, 2.1%, 2.2%, 2.3%, 2.4%, 2.5%, 2.6%, 2.7%, 2.8%, 2.9%, 3.0%, 3.1%, 3.2%, 3.3%, 3.4%, 3.5%, 3.6%, 3.7%, 3.8%, 3.9%, 4.0%, 4.1%, 4.2%, 4.3%, 4.4%, 4.5%, 4.6%, 4.7%, 4.8%, 4.9%, 5.0%, 5.1%, 5.2%, 5.3%, 5.4%, 5.5%, 5.6%, 5.7%, 5.8%, 5.9%, 6.0%, 6.1%, 6.2%, 6.3%, 6.4%, 6.5%, 6.6%, 6.7%, 6.8%, 6.9%, 7.0%, 7.1%, 7.2%, 7.3%, 7.4%, 7.5%, 7.6%, 7.7%, 7.8%, 7.9%, 8.0%, 8.1%, 8.2%, 8.3%, 8.4%, 8.5%, 8.6%, 8.7%, 8.8%, 8.9%, 9.0%, 9.1%, 9.2%, 9.3%, 9.4%, 9.5%, 9.6%, 9.7%, 9.8%, 9.9%, 10%, 11%, 12%, 13%, 14%, 15%, 16%, 17%, 18%, 19%, 20%, 21%, 22%, 23%, 24%, 25%, 26%, 27%, 28%, 29%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, or 99% or more, or any range or integer derivable therein, of at least one of the plant extracts identified in this specification or any combination thereof or additional ingredients. In non-limiting aspects, the percentage of such ingredients can be calculated by weight or volume of the total weight of the compositions. The concentrations can vary depending on the desired effect of the compositions or on the product into which the compositions are incorporated.

2. Composition Vehicles

The compositions of the present invention can be formulated into all types of vehicles. Non-limiting examples of suitable vehicles include emulsions (e.g., oil-in-water, water-in-oil, silicone-in-water, water-in-silicone, water-in-oil-in-water, oil-in-water, oil-in-water-in-oil, oil-in-water-in-silicone, etc.), creams, lotions, solutions (both aqueous and hydro-alcoholic), anhydrous bases (such as lipsticks and powders), gels, ointments, pastes, milks, liquids, aerosols, solid forms, or eye jellies. Variations and other appropriate vehicles will be apparent to the skilled artisan and are appropriate for use in the present invention. In certain aspects, the concentrations and combinations of the ingredients can be selected in such a way that the combinations are chemically compatible and do not form complexes which precipitate from the finished product.

It is also contemplated that the plant extracts and additional ingredients identified throughout this specification can be encapsulated for delivery to a target area such as skin. Non-limiting examples of encapsulation techniques include the use of liposomes, vesicles, and/or nanoparticles (e.g., biodegradable and non-biodegradable colloidal particles comprising polymeric materials in which the ingredient is trapped, encapsulated, and/or absorbed—examples include nanospheres and nanocapsules) that can be used as delivery vehicles to deliver such ingredients to skin (see, e.g., U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,387,398; 6,203,802; 5,411,744; Kreuter 1988).

Also contemplated are pharmaceutically-acceptable or pharmacologically-acceptable compositions. The phrase “pharmaceutically-acceptable” or “pharmacologically-acceptable” includes compositions that do not produce an allergic or similar untoward reaction when administered to a human. Typically, such compositions are prepared either as topical compositions, liquid solutions or suspensions, solid forms suitable for solution in, or suspension in, liquid prior to use can also be prepared. Routes of administration can vary with the location and nature of the condition to be treated, and include, e.g., topical, inhalation, intradermal, transdermal, parenteral, intravenous, intramuscular, intranasal, subcutaneous, percutaneous, intratracheal, intraperitoneal, intratumoral, perfusion, lavage, direct injection (e.g., an injectable solution), and oral administration and formulation (e.g., tablets, capsules, etc.).

3. Products

The compositions of the present invention can be incorporated into products. Non-limiting examples of products include cosmetic products, food-based products (e.g., fortified water, energy drinks, nutritional drinks, vitamins, supplements, solid foods), pharmaceutical products, etc. By way of example only, non-limiting cosmetic products include sunscreen products, sunless skin tanning products, hair products (e.g., shampoos, conditioners, colorants, dyes, bleaches, straighteners, and permanent wave products), fingernail products, moisturizing creams, skin creams and lotions, softeners, day lotions, gels, ointments, foundations, night creams, lipsticks and lip balms, cleansers, toners, masks, deodorants, antiperspirants, exfoliating compositions, shaving-related products (e.g., creams, “bracers” and aftershaves), pre-moistened wipes and washcloths, tanning lotions, bath products such as oils, foot care products such as powders and sprays, skin colorant and make-up products such as foundations, blushes, rouges eye shadows and lines, lip colors and mascaras, baby products (e.g., baby lotions, oils, shampoos, powders and wet wipes), and skin or facial peel products. Additionally, the cosmetic products can be formulated as leave-on or rinse-off products. Further products can include hair re-growth compositions, serums, sprays, and the like.

4. Additional Ingredients

Compositions of the present invention can include additional ingredients. Non-limiting examples of additional ingredients include cosmetic ingredients (both active and non-active) and pharmaceutical ingredients (both active and non-active).

a. Cosmetic Ingredients

The CTFA International Cosmetic Ingredient Dictionary and Handbook (2008), 12thEdition, describes a wide variety of non-limiting cosmetic ingredients that can be used in the context of the present invention. Examples of these ingredient classes include: fragrances (artificial and natural), dyes and color ingredients (e.g., Blue 1, Blue 1 Lake, Red 40, titanium dioxide, D&C blue no. 4, D&C green no. 5, D&C orange no. 4, D&C red no. 17, D&C red no. 33, D&C violet no. 2, D&C yellow no. 10, and D&C yellow no. 11), adsorbents, emulsifiers, stabilizers, lubricants, solvents, moisturizers (including, e.g., emollients, humectants, film formers, occlusive agents, and agents that affect the natural moisturization mechanisms of the skin), water-repellants, UV absorbers (physical and chemical absorbers such as paraaminobenzoic acid (“PABA”) and corresponding PABA derivatives, titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, etc.), essential oils, vitamins (e.g., A, B, C, D, E, and K), trace metals (e.g., zinc, calcium and selenium), anti-irritants (e.g., steroids and non-steroidal anti-inflammatories), botanical extracts (e.g., aloe vera, chamomile, cucumber extract,Ginkgo biloba, ginseng, and rosemary), anti-microbial agents, antioxidants (e.g., BHT and tocopherol), chelating agents (e.g., disodium EDTA and tetrasodium EDTA), preservatives (e.g., methylparaben and propylparaben), pH adjusters (e.g., sodium hydroxide and citric acid), absorbents (e.g., aluminum starch octenylsuccinate, kaolin, corn starch, oat starch, cyclodextrin, talc, and zeolite), skin bleaching and lightening agents (e.g., hydroquinone and niacinamide lactate), humectants (e.g., glycerin, propylene glycol, butylene glycol, pentylene glycol, sorbitol, urea, and manitol), exfoliants (e.g., alpha-hydroxyacids, and beta-hydroxyacids such as lactic acid, glycolic acid, and salicylic acid; and salts thereof) waterproofing agents (e.g., magnesium/aluminum hydroxide stearate), skin conditioning agents (e.g., aloe extracts, allantoin, bisabolol, ceramides, dimethicone, hyaluronic acid, and dipotassium glycyrrhizate), thickening agents (e.g., substances which that can increase the viscosity of a composition such as carboxylic acid polymers, crosslinked polyacrylate polymers, polyacrylamide polymers, polysaccharides, and gums), and silicone containing compounds (e.g., silicone oils and polyorganosiloxanes). The following provides specific non-limiting examples of some of the additional ingredients that can be used with the compositions of the present invention.

i. Sunscreen Agents

UV absorption agents that can be used in combination with the compositions of the present invention include chemical and physical sunblocks. Non-limiting examples of chemical sunblocks that can be used include para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA), PABA esters (glyceryl PABA, amyldimethyl PABA and octyldimethyl PABA), butyl PABA, ethyl PABA, ethyl dihydroxypropyl PABA, benzophenones (oxybenzone, sulisobenzone, benzophenone, and benzophenone-1 through 12), cinnamates (octyl methoxycinnamate, isoamyl p-methoxycinnamate, octylmethoxy cinnamate, cinoxate, diisopropyl methyl cinnamate, DEA-methoxycinnamate, ethyl diisopropylcinnamate, glyceryl octanoate dimethoxycinnamate and ethyl methoxycinnamate), cinnamate esters, salicylates (homomethyl salicylate, benzyl salicylate, glycol salicylate, isopropylbenzyl salicylate, etc.), anthranilates, ethyl urocanate, homosalate, octisalate, dibenzoylmethane derivatives (e.g., avobenzone), octocrylene, octyl triazone, digalloy trioleate, glyceryl aminobenzoate, lawsone with dihydroxyacetone, ethylhexyl triazone, dioctyl butamido triazone, benzylidene malonate polysiloxane, terephthalylidene dicamphor sulfonic acid, disodium phenyl dibenzimidazole tetrasulfonate, diethylamino hydroxybenzoyl hexyl benzoate, bis diethylamino hydroxybenzoyl benzoate, bis benzoxazoylphenyl ethylhexylimino triazine, drometrizole trisiloxane, methylene bis-benzotriazolyl tetramethylbutyiphenol, and bis-ethylhexyloxyphenol methoxyphenyltriazine, 4-methylbenzylidenecamphor, and isopentyl 4-methoxycinnamate. Non-limiting examples of physical sunblocks include, kaolin, talc, petrolatum and metal oxides (e.g., titanium dioxide and zinc oxide). Compositions of the present invention can have UVA and UVB absorption properties. The compositions can have an sun protection factor (SPF) of 2, 3, 4, 56, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 70, 80, 90 or more, or any integer or derivative therein.

ii. Moisturizing Agents

Non-limiting examples of moisturizing agents that can be used with the compositions of the present invention include amino acids, chondroitin sulfate, diglycerin, erythritol, fructose, glucose, glycerin, glycerol polymers, glycol, 1,2,6-hexanetriol, honey, hyaluronic acid, hydrogenated honey, hydrogenated starch hydrolysate, inositol, lactitol, maltitol, maltose, mannitol, natural moisturizing factor, PEG-15 butanediol, polyglyceryl sorbitol, salts of pyrollidone carboxylic acid, potassium PCA, propylene glycol, sodium glucuronate, sodium PCA, sorbitol, sucrose, trehalose, urea, and xylitol.

Other examples include acetylated lanolin, acetylated lanolin alcohol, acrylates/C10-30 alkyl acrylate crosspolymer, acrylates copolymer, alanine, algae extract, aloe barbadensis, aloe-barbadensis extract, aloe barbadensis gel, althea officinalis extract, aluminum starch octenylsuccinate, aluminum stearate, apricot (Prunus armeniaca) kernel oil, arginine, arginine aspartate, arnica montana extract, ascorbic acid, ascorbyl palmitate, aspartic acid, avocado (Persea gratissima) oil, barium sulfate, barrier sphingolipids, butyl alcohol, beeswax, behenyl alcohol, beta-sitosterol, BHT, birch (Betula alba) bark extract, borage (Borago officinalis) extract, 2-bromo-2-nitropropane-1,3-diol, butcherbroom (Ruscus aculeatus) extract, butylene glycol,Calendula officinalisextract,Calendula officinalisoil, candelilla (Euphorbia cerifera) wax, canola oil, caprylic/capric triglyceride, cardamon (Elettaria cardamomum) oil, carnauba (Copernicia cerifera) wax, carrageenan (Chondrus crispus), carrot (Daucus carotasativa) oil, castor (Ricinus communis) oil, ceramides, ceresin, ceteareth-5, ceteareth-12, ceteareth-20, cetearyl octanoate, ceteth-20, ceteth-24, cetyl acetate, cetyl octanoate, cetyl palmitate, chamomile (Anthemis nobilis) oil, cholesterol, cholesterol esters, cholesteryl hydroxystearate, citric acid, clary (Salvia sclarea) oil, cocoa (Theobroma cacao) butter, coco-caprylate/caprate, coconut (Cocos nucifera) oil, collagen, collagen amino acids, corn (Zea mays)oil, fatty acids, decyl oleate, dextrin, diazolidinyl urea, dimethicone copolyol, dimethiconol, dioctyl adipate, dioctyl succinate, dipentaerythrityl hexacaprylate/hexacaprate, DMDM hydantoin, DNA, erythritol, ethoxydiglycol, ethyl linoleate, eucalyptus globulus oil, evening primrose (Oenothera biennis) oil, fatty acids, tructose, gelatin, geranium maculatum oil, glucosamine, glucose glutamate, glutamic acid, glycereth-26, glycerin, glycerol, glyceryl distearate, glyceryl hydroxystearate, glyceryl laurate, glyceryl linoleate, glyceryl myristate, glyceryl oleate, glyceryl stearate, glyceryl stearate SE, glycine, glycol stearate, glycol stearate SE, glycosaminoglycans, grape (Vitis vinifera) seed oil, hazel (Corylus americana) nut oil, hazel (Corylus avellana) nut oil, hexylene glycol, honey, hyaluronic acid, hybrid safflower (Carthamus tinctorius) oil, hydrogenated castor oil, hydrogenated coco-glycerides, hydrogenated coconut oil, hydrogenated lanolin, hydrogenated lecithin, hydrogenated palm glyceride, hydrogenated palm kernel oil, hydrogenated soybean oil, hydrogenated tallow glyceride, hydrogenated vegetable oil, hydrolyzed collagen, hydrolyzed elastin, hydrolyzed glycosaminoglycans, hydrolyzed keratin, hydrolyzed soy protein, hydroxylated lanolin, hydroxyproline, imidazolidinyl urea, iodopropynyl butylcarbamate, isocetyl stearate, isocetyl stearoyl stearate, isodecyl oleate, isopropyl isostearate, isopropyl lanolate, isopropyl myristate, isopropyl palmitate, isopropyl stearate, isostearamide DEA, isostearic acid, isostearyl lactate, isostearyl neopentanoate, jasmine (Jasminum officinale) oil, jojoba (Buxus chinensis) oil, kelp, kukui (Aleurites moluccana) nut oil, lactamide MEA, laneth-16, laneth-10 acetate, lanolin, lanolin acid, lanolin alcohol, lanolin oil, lanolin wax, lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) oil, lecithin, lemon (citrusMedica limonum) oil, linoleic acid, linolenic acid,Macadamia ternifolianut oil, magnesium stearate, magnesium sulfate, maltitol, matricaria (Chamomilla recutita) oil, methyl glucose sesquistearate, methylsilanol PCA, microcrystalline wax, mineral oil, mink oil, mortierella oil, myristyl lactate, myristyl myristate, myristyl propionate, neopentyl glycol dicaprylate/dicaprate, octyldodecanol, octyldodecyl myristate, octyldodecyl stearoyl stearate, octyl hydroxystearate, octyl palmitate, octyl salicylate, octyl stearate, oleic acid, olive (Olea europaea) oil, orange (citrusAurantium dulcis) oil, palm (Elaeis guineensis) oil, palmitic acid, pantethine, panthenol, panthenyl ethyl ether, paraffin, PCA, peach (Prunus persica) kernel oil, peanut (Arachis hypogaea) oil, PEG-8 C12-18 ester, PEG-15 cocamine, PEG-150 distearate, PEG-60 glyceryl isostearate, PEG-5 glyceryl stearate, PEG-30 glyceryl stearate, PEG-7 hydrogenated castor oil, PEG-40 hydrogenated castor oil, PEG-60 hydrogenated castor oil, PEG-20 methyl glucose sesquistearate, PEG40 sorbitan peroleate, PEG-5 soy sterol, PEG-10 soy sterol, PEG-2 stearate, PEG-8 stearate, PEG-20 stearate, PEG-32 stearate, PEG40 stearate, PEG-50 stearate, PEG-100 stearate, PEG-150 stearate, pentadecalactone, peppermint (Mentha piperita) oil, petrolatum, phospholipids, polyamino sugar condensate, polyglyceryl-3 diisostearate, polyquaternium-24, polysorbate 20, polysorbate 40, polysorbate 60, polysorbate 80, polysorbate 85, potassium myristate, potassium palmitate, potassium sorbate, potassium stearate, propylene glycol, propylene glycol dicaprylate/dicaprate, propylene glycol dioctanoate, propylene glycol dipelargonate, propylene glycol laurate, propylene glycol stearate, propylene glycol stearate SE, PVP, pyridoxine dipalmitate, quaternium-15, quaternium-18 hectorite, quaternium-22, retinol, retinyl palmitate, rice (Oryza sativa) bran oil, RNA, rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) oil, rose oil, safflower (Carthamus tinctorius) oil, sage (Salvia officinalis) oil, salicylic acid, sandalwood (Santalum album) oil, serine, serum protein, sesame (Sesamum indicum) oil, shea butter (Butyrospermum parkii), silk powder, sodium chondroitin sulfate, sodium hyaluronate, sodium lactate, sodium palmitate, sodium PCA, sodium polyglutamate, sodium stearate, soluble collagen, sorbic acid, sorbitan laurate, sorbitan oleate, sorbitan palmitate, sorbitan sesquioleate, sorbitan stearate, sorbitol, soybean (Glycine soja) oil, sphingolipids, squalane, squalene, stearamide MEA-stearate, stearic acid, stearoxy dimethicone, stearoxytrimethylsilane, stearyl alcohol, stearyl glycyrrhetinate, stearyl heptanoate, stearyl stearate, sunflower (Helianthus annuus) seed oil, sweet almond (prunusAmygdalus dulcis) oil, synthetic beeswax, tocopherol, tocopheryl acetate, tocopheryl linoleate, tribehenin, tridecyl neopentanoate, tridecyl stearate, triethanolamine, tristearin, urea, vegetable oil, water, waxes, wheat (Triticum vulgare) germ oil, and ylang ylang (Cananga odorata) oil.

iii. Antioxidants

Non-limiting examples of antioxidants that can be used with the compositions of the present invention include acetyl cysteine, ascorbic acid polypeptide, ascorbyl dipalmitate, ascorbyl methylsilanol pectinate, ascorbyl palmitate, ascorbyl stearate, BHA, BHT, t-butyl hydroquinone, cysteine, cysteine HCI, diamylhydroquinone, di-t-butylhydroquinone, dicetyl thiodipropionate, dioleyl tocopheryl methylsilanol, disodium ascorbyl sulfate, distearyl thiodipropionate, ditridecyl thiodipropionate, dodecyl gallate, erythorbic acid, esters of ascorbic acid, ethyl ferulate, ferulic acid, gallic acid esters, hydroquinone, isooctyl thioglycolate, kojic acid, magnesium ascorbate, magnesium ascorbyl phosphate, methylsilanol ascorbate, natural botanical anti-oxidants such as green tea or grape seed extracts, nordihydroguaiaretic acid, octyl gallate, phenylthioglycolic acid, potassium ascorbyl tocopheryl phosphate, potassium sulfite, propyl gallate, quinones, rosmarinic acid, sodium ascorbate, sodium bisulfite, sodium erythorbate, sodium metabisulfite, sodium sulfite, superoxide dismutase, sodium thioglycolate, sorbityl furfural, thiodiglycol, thiodiglycolamide, thiodiglycolic acid, thioglycolic acid, thiolactic acid, thiosalicylic acid, tocophereth-5, tocophereth-10, tocophereth-12, tocophereth-18, tocophereth-50, tocopherol, tocophersolan, tocopheryl acetate, tocopheryl linoleate, tocopheryl nicotinate, tocopheryl succinate, and tris(nonylphenyl)phosphite.

iv. Structuring Agents

In other non-limiting aspects, the compositions of the present invention can include a structuring agent. Structuring agents, in certain aspects, assist in providing rheological characteristics to the composition to contribute to the composition's stability. In other aspects, structuring agents can also function as an emulsifier or surfactant. Non-limiting examples of structuring agents include stearic acid, palmitic acid, stearyl alcohol, cetyl alcohol, behenyl alcohol, stearic acid, palmitic acid, the polyethylene glycol ether of stearyl alcohol having an average of about 1 to about 21 ethylene oxide units, the polyethylene glycol ether of cetyl alcohol having an average of about 1 to about 5 ethylene oxide units, and mixtures thereof.

v. Emulsifiers

In some non-limiting aspects, the compositions can include one or more emulsifiers. Emulsifiers can reduce the interfacial tension between phases and improve the formulation and stability of an emulsion. The emulsifiers can be nonionic, cationic, anionic, and zwitterionic emulsifiers (See McCutcheon's (1986); U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,011,681; 4,421,769; 3,755,560). Non-limiting examples include esters of glycerin, esters of propylene glycol, fatty acid esters of polyethylene glycol, fatty acid esters of polypropylene glycol, esters of sorbitol, esters of sorbitan anhydrides, carboxylic acid copolymers, esters and ethers of glucose, ethoxylated ethers, ethoxylated alcohols, alkyl phosphates, polyoxyethylene fatty ether phosphates, fatty acid amides, acyl lactylates, soaps, TEA stearate, DEA oleth-3 phosphate, polyethylene glycol 20 sorbitan monolaurate (polysorbate 20), polyethylene glycol 5 soya sterol, steareth-2, steareth-20, steareth-21, ceteareth-20, PPG-2 methyl glucose ether distearate, ceteth-10, polysorbate 80, cetyl phosphate, potassium cetyl phosphate, diethanolamine cetyl phosphate, polysorbate 60, glyceryl stearate, PEG-100 stearate, and mixtures thereof.

vi. Silicone Containing Compounds

In non-limiting aspects, silicone containing compounds include any member of a family of polymeric products whose molecular backbone is made up of alternating silicon and oxygen atoms with side groups attached to the silicon atoms. By varying the —Si—O— chain lengths, side groups, and crosslinking, silicones can be synthesized into a wide variety of materials. They can vary in consistency from liquid to gel to solids.

The silicone containing compounds that can be used in the context of the present invention include those described in this specification or those known to a person of ordinary skill in the art. Non-limiting examples include silicone oils (e.g., volatile and non-volatile oils), gels, and solids. In preferred aspects, the silicon containing compounds includes a silicone oils such as a polyorganosiloxane. Non-limiting examples of polyorganosiloxanes include dimethicone, cyclomethicone, poly silicone-11, phenyl trimethicone, trimethylsilylamodimethicone, stearoxytrimethylsilane, or mixtures of these and other organosiloxane materials in any given ratio in order to achieve the desired consistency and application characteristics depending upon the intended application (e.g., to a particular area such as the skin, hair, or eyes). A “volatile silicone oil” includes a silicone oil have a low heat of vaporization, i.e. normally less than about 50 cal per gram of silicone oil. Non-limiting examples of volatile silicone oils include: cyclomethicones such as Dow Corning 344 Fluid, Dow Corning 345 Fluid, Dow Corning 244 Fluid, and Dow Corning 245 Fluid, Volatile Silicon 7207 (Union Carbide Corp., Danbury, Conn.); low viscosity dimethicones, i.e. dimethicones having a viscosity of about 50 cst or less (e.g., dimethicones such as Dow Corning 200-0.5 cst Fluid). The Dow Corning Fluids are available from Dow Corning Corporation, Midland, Mich. Cyclomethicone and dimethicone are described in the Third Edition of the CTFA Cosmetic Ingredient Dictionary (incorporated by reference) as cyclic dimethyl polysiloxane compounds and a mixture of fully methylated linear siloxane polymers end-blocked with trimethylsiloxy units, respectively. Other non-limiting volatile silicone oils that can be used in the context of the present invention include those available from General Electric Co., Silicone Products Div., Waterford, N.Y. and SWS Silicones Div. of Stauffer Chemical Co., Adrian, Mich.

vii. Essential Oils

Essential oils include oils derived from herbs, flowers, trees, and other plants. Such oils are typically present as tiny droplets between the plant's cells, and can be extracted by several method known to those of skill in the art (e.g., steam distilled, enfleurage (i.e., extraction by using fat), maceration, solvent extraction, or mechanical pressing). When these types of oils are exposed to air they tend to evaporate (i.e., a volatile oil). As a result, many essential oils are colorless, but with age they can oxidize and become darker. Essential oils are insoluble in water and are soluble in alcohol, ether, fixed oils (vegetal), and other organic solvents. Typical physical characteristics found in essential oils include boiling points that vary from about 160° to 240° C. and densities ranging from about 0.759 to about 1.096.

Essential oils typically are named by the plant from which the oil is found. For example, rose oil or peppermint oil are derived from rose or peppermint plants, respectively. Non-limiting examples of essential oils that can be used in the context of the present invention include sesame oil, macadamia nut oil, tea tree oil, evening primrose oil, Spanish sage oil, Spanish rosemary oil, coriander oil, thyme oil, pimento berries oil, rose oil, anise oil, balsam oil, bergamot oil, rosewood oil, cedar oil, chamomile oil, sage oil, clary sage oil, clove oil, cypress oil, eucalyptus oil, fennel oil, sea fennel oil, frankincense oil, geranium oil, ginger oil, grapefruit oil, jasmine oil, juniper oil, lavender oil, lemon oil, lemongrass oil, lime oil, mandarin oil, marjoram oil, myrrh oil, neroli oil, orange oil, patchouli oil, pepper oil, black pepper oil, petitgrain oil, pine oil, rose otto oil, rosemary oil, sandalwood oil, spearmint oil, spikenard oil, vetiver oil, wintergreen oil, or ylang ylang. Other essential oils known to those of skill in the art are also contemplated as being useful within the context of the present invention.

viii. Thickening Agents

Thickening agents, including thickener or gelling agents, include substances that can increase the viscosity of a composition. Thickeners include those that can increase the viscosity of a composition without substantially modifying the efficacy of the active ingredient within the composition. Thickeners can also increase the stability of the compositions of the present invention.

Non-limiting examples of additional thickening agents that can be used in the context of the present invention include carboxylic acid polymers, crosslinked polyacrylate polymers, polyacrylamide polymers, polysaccharides, and gums. Examples of carboxylic acid polymers include crosslinked compounds containing one or more monomers derived from acrylic acid, substituted acrylic acids, and salts and esters of these acrylic acids and the substituted acrylic acids, wherein the crosslinking agent contains two or more carbon-carbon double bonds and is derived from a polyhydric alcohol (see U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,087,445; 4,509,949; 2,798,053; CTFA International Cosmetic Ingredient Dictionary, Fourth edition, 1991, pp. 12 and 80). Examples of commercially available carboxylic acid polymers include carbomers, which are homopolymers of acrylic acid crosslinked with allyl ethers of sucrose or pentaerytritol (e.g., Carbopol™ 900 series from B. F. Goodrich).

Non-limiting examples of crosslinked polyacrylate polymers include cationic and nonionic polymers. Examples are described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,100,660; 4,849,484; 4,835,206; 4,628,078; 4,599,379).

Non-limiting examples of polyacrylamide polymers (including nonionic polyacrylamide polymers including substituted branched or unbranched polymers) include polyacrylamide, isoparaffin and laureth-7, multi-block copolymers of acrylamides and substituted acrylamides with acrylic acids and substituted acrylic acids.

Non-limiting examples of polysaccharides include cellulose, carboxymethyl hydroxyethylcellulose, cellulose acetate propionate carboxylate, hydroxyethylcellulose, hydroxyethyl ethylcellulose, hydroxypropylcellulose, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, methyl hydroxyethylcellulose, microcrystalline cellulose, sodium cellulose sulfate, and mixtures thereof. Another example is an alkyl substituted cellulose where the hydroxy groups of the cellulose polymer is hydroxyalkylated (preferably hydroxy ethylated or hydroxypropylated) to form a hydroxyalkylated cellulose which is then further modified with a C10-C30straight chain or branched chain alkyl group through an ether linkage. Typically these polymers are ethers of C10-C30straight or branched chain alcohols with hydroxyalkylcelluloses. Other useful polysaccharides include scleroglucans comprising a linear chain of (1-3) linked glucose units with a (1-6) linked glucose every three unit.

Non-limiting examples of gums that can be used with the present invention include acacia, agar, algin, alginic acid, ammonium alginate, amylopectin, calcium alginate, calcium carrageenan, carnitine, carrageenan, dextrin, gelatin, gellan gum, guar gum, guar hydroxypropyltrimonium chloride, hectorite, hyaluroinic acid, hydrated silica, hydroxypropyl chitosan, hydroxypropyl guar, karaya gum, kelp, locust bean gum, natto gum, potassium alginate, potassium carrageenan, propylene glycol alginate, sclerotium gum, sodium carboyxmethyl dextran, sodium carrageenan, tragacanth gum, xanthan gum, and mixtures thereof.

b. Pharmaceutical Ingredients

Pharmaceutical ingredients are also contemplated as being useful with the emulsion compositions of the present invention. Non-limiting examples of pharmaceutical ingredients include anti-acne agents, agents used to treat rosacea, analgesics, anesthetics, anorectals, antihistamines, anti-inflammatory agents including non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, antibiotics, antifungals, antivirals, antimicrobials, anti-cancer actives, scabicides, pediculicides, antineoplastics, antiperspirants, antipruritics, antipsoriatic agents, antiseborrheic agents, biologically active proteins and peptides, burn treatment agents, cauterizing agents, depigmenting agents, depilatories, diaper rash treatment agents, enzymes, hair growth stimulants, hair growth retardants including DFMO and its salts and analogs, hemostatics, kerotolytics, canker sore treatment agents, cold sore treatment agents, dental and periodontal treatment agents, photosensitizing actives, skin protectant/barrier agents, steroids including hormones and corticosteroids, sunburn treatment agents, sunscreens, transdermal actives, nasal actives, vaginal actives, wart treatment agents, wound treatment agents, wound healing agents, etc.

C. Kits

Kits are also contemplated as being used in certain aspects of the present invention. For instance, a composition of the present invention can be included in a kit. A kit can include a container. Containers can include a bottle, a metal tube, a laminate tube, a plastic tube, a dispenser, a pressurized container, a barrier container, a package, a compartment, a lipstick container, a compact container, cosmetic pans that can hold cosmetic compositions, or other types of containers such as injection or blow-molded plastic containers into which the dispersions or compositions or desired bottles, dispensers, or packages are retained. The kit and/or container can include indicia on its surface. The indicia, for example, can be a word, a phrase, an abbreviation, a picture, or a symbol.

The containers can dispense a pre-determined amount of a composition. In other embodiments, the container can be squeezed (e.g., metal, laminate, or plastic tube) to dispense a desired amount of the composition. The composition can be dispensed as a spray, foam, an aerosol, a liquid, a fluid, or a semi-solid. The containers can have spray, pump, or squeeze mechanisms. A kit can also include instructions for using the kit and/or compositions. Instructions can include an explanation of how to apply, use, and maintain the compositions.

