U.S. patent application number 13/723602 was filed with the patent office on 2013-06-27 for astragalus seed extract solution and its use for treating skin disorders and conditions.
This patent application is currently assigned to Nefeli Corp.. The applicant listed for this patent is Nefeli Corp.. Invention is credited to Ping Zhang.
Application Number | 20130164392 13/723602 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 48654810 |
Filed Date | 2013-06-27 |
United States Patent
Application |
20130164392 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Zhang; Ping |
June 27, 2013 |
ASTRAGALUS SEED EXTRACT SOLUTION AND ITS USE FOR TREATING SKIN
DISORDERS AND CONDITIONS
Abstract
An aqueous Astragalus seed extract solution prepared by a method
including soaking dried seeds of Astragalus seed in an aqueous
solvent to form a suspension, boiling the suspension for at least
30 minutes, and filtering the suspension so as to obtain the
Astragalus seed aqueous extract solution, the weight ratio of the
dried seeds of Astragalus seed to the extract solution being 1:100
to 75:100.
Inventors: |
Zhang; Ping; (Port
Washington, NY) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Nefeli Corp.; |
Port Washington |
NY |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
Nefeli Corp.
Port Washington
NY
|
Family ID: |
48654810 |
Appl. No.: |
13/723602 |
Filed: |
December 21, 2012 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61579726 |
Dec 23, 2011 |
|
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|
Current U.S.
Class: |
424/757 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61P 17/00 20180101;
A61Q 19/00 20130101; A61K 36/481 20130101; A61Q 19/08 20130101;
A61Q 19/02 20130101; A61K 8/9789 20170801 |
Class at
Publication: |
424/757 |
International
Class: |
A61K 36/481 20060101
A61K036/481; A61Q 19/08 20060101 A61Q019/08; A61K 8/97 20060101
A61K008/97 |
Claims
1. An aqueous Astragalus seed extract solution prepared by a method
comprising: soaking dried seeds of Astragalus seed in an aqueous
solvent to form a suspension, boiling the suspension for at least
30 minutes, and filtering the suspension so as to obtain the
Astragalus seed aqueous extract solution, wherein the weight ratio
of the dried seeds of Astragalus seed to the extract solution is
1:100 to 75:100.
2. The extract solution of claim 1, wherein the weight ratio of the
dried seeds of Astragalus seed to the extract solution is 8:100 to
50:100.
3. The extract solution of claim 2, wherein the weight ratio of the
dried seeds of Astragalus seed to the extract solution is 10:100 to
25:100.
4. The extract solution of claim 1, wherein the method further
comprises, after the filtering step, adjusting the weight ratio by
boiling the extract solution to decrease its volume or by adding to
the extract solution a solvent to increase its volume.
5. The extract solution of claim 4, wherein the weight ratio of the
dried seeds of Astragalus seed to the extract solution is 10:100 to
25:100.
6. A skin care composition, comprising the aqueous Astragalus seed
extract solution of claim 1 and a non-aqueous skin acceptable
carrier, wherein the extract solution is 0.01-75% by weight.
7. The skin care composition of claim 6, wherein the extract
solution is 0.5-50% by weight.
8. The skin care composition of claim 7, wherein the extract
solution is 10-25% by weight.
9. The skin care composition of claim 8, wherein the weight ratio
of the dried seeds of Astragalus seed to the extract solution is
10:100 to 25:100.
10. The skin care composition of claim 6, wherein the weight ratio
of the dried seeds of Astragalus seed to the extract solution is
10:100 to 25:100.
11. A skin care method, comprising applying topically an effective
amount of the aqueous Astragalus seed extract solution of claim 1
to a skin area in need of reducing or slowing a skin disorder.
12. The skin care method of claim 11, wherein the skin disorder is
selected from the group consisting of acne, acne marks, scars,
rosacea, irritated skin, dark spots, enlarged skin pores, and
blemishes.
13. The skin care method of claim 12, wherein the weight ratio of
the dried seeds of Astragalus seed to the extract solution is 8:100
to 50:100.
14. The skin care method of claim 13, wherein the weight ratio of
the dried seeds of Astragalus seed to the extract solution is
10:100 to 25:100.
15. The skin care method of claim 12, wherein the skin disorder is
selected from the group consisting of acne, acne marks, and dark
spots.
16. A skin care method, comprising applying topically an effective
amount of the aqueous Astragalus seed extract solution of claim 1
to a skin area in need of reducing or slowing a skin condition.
17. The skin care method of claim 16, wherein the skin condition is
selected from the group consisting of wrinkles, loose skin,
sagging, uneven skin tone, dull complexion, and age spots.
18. The skin care method of claim 17, wherein the weight ratio of
the dried seeds of Astragalus seed to the extract solution is 8:100
to 50:100.
19. The skin care method of claim 18, wherein the weight ratio of
the dried seeds of Astragalus seed to the extract solution is
10:100 to 25:100.
20. The skin care method of claim 17, wherein the skin condition is
selected from the group consisting of uneven skin tone, dull
complexion, and age spots.
Description
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent
Application Ser. No. 61/579,726, filed Dec. 23, 2011, the content
of which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Astragalus is a large genus that contains about 3000
different species, including Astragalus seed, also called Flatstem
milkvetch seed or Astragalus complanatus.
[0003] Astragalus seed is widely grown in northern China. According
to traditional Chinese medicine, it is efficacious in improving
vision, liver functions, and kidney functions. However, its use in
skin care has not been reported.
[0004] There are many skin care products for treating skin
disorders and conditions, such as acne and age spots. Chemical
ingredients in many of these products are irritating or even
harmful to the skin. There is a need for natural skin care products
that have no side effects.
SUMMARY
[0005] In one aspect, this invention features an aqueous Astragalus
seed extract solution prepared by a method including: (1) soaking
dried seeds of Astragalus seed in an aqueous solution to form a
suspension, (2) boiling (e.g., 100.degree. C. or above at 1 atm)
the suspension for at least 30 minutes, and (3) filtering the
suspension so as to obtain the Astragalus seed aqueous extract
solution, in which a weight ratio of the dried Astragalus seed to
the extract solution is 1:100 to 75:100 (preferably 8:100 to 50:100
and more preferably 10:100 to 25:100). The term "an aqueous
solvent" herein refers to water itself or a solvent mixture that
contains water at least 15% (e.g., 50%, 75% or 90%) by weight, and
the remaining of the solution can be, but is not limited to,
vinegar, alcohol, or any other herbal extraction solvent.
Preferably, Astragalus seed is the only herb used in the
above-described method. The method can further include, after the
filtering step, a step of adjusting the weight ratio by boiling the
extract solution to decrease its volume or by adding to the extract
solution a solvent to increase its volume to form an aqueous
Astragalus seed extract solution of this invention.
[0006] In one embodiment, the dried seeds of Astragalus seed are
crushed or ground in the suspension after the boiling step while
the suspension remains at an elevated temperature. In that case,
the suspension containing the crushed or ground seeds is preferably
boiled again for a period of time. As another alternative, they can
be crushed or ground right after the soaking step and before the
boiling step.
[0007] In another aspect, this invention features a skin care
composition containing the above-described aqueous Astragalus seed
extract solution and a non-aqueous skin acceptable carrier, in
which the extract solution is 0.01-75% by weight (preferably
0.5-50% by weight and more preferably 10-25% by weight).
[0008] In still another aspect, this invention features a skin care
method. The method includes applying topically an effective amount
of the above-described aqueous Astragalus seed extract solution to
a skin area in need of reducing or slowing one or more skin
disorders or conditions (i.e., unrelated to aging), e.g., acne,
acne marks, scars, rosacea, irritated skin, dark spots, enlarged
skin pores, and blemishes.
[0009] In yet another aspect, this invention features another skin
care method. The method includes applying topically an effective
amount of the above-described aqueous Astragalus seed extract
solution to a skin area in need of reducing or slowing one or more
skin conditions (i.e., related to aging), e.g., wrinkles, loose
skin, sagging, uneven skin tone, dull complexion, and age
spots.
[0010] The details of one or more embodiments of the invention are
set forth in the description below. Other features, objects, and
advantages of the invention will be apparent from the description,
the examples, and the claims below.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0011] This invention is based on the discovery that an aqueous
Astragalus seed extract solution can be applied to a skin area to
reduce or slow a skin disorder or a skin condition.
[0012] Examples of skin disorders or conditions (i.e., unrelated to
aging) include, but are not limited to, acne, acne marks, scars,
rosacea, irritated skin, dark spots, and blemishes.
[0013] Acne affects the skin's oil glands. In particular, a pimple
grows when a follicle of a skin gland clogs up. More specifically,
the hair, sebum, and skin cells clump together to form a plug, and
when the plug starts to break down, a pimple grows. Acne can be
caused by heredity, medications, greasy cosmetics, hormonal changes
during pregnancy, puberty, menstrual periods, stress, and the use
or termination of birth control pills.
[0014] Acne marks, i.e., red or hyper pigmented marks on the skin,
can appear after acne is healed. The redness or hyperpigmentation
can take 6-12 months to go through a healing process if no further
acne occurs in that area. However, a permanent scar or a defect is
possible in the skin area where acne occurred.
[0015] Scars are areas of fibrous tissues that replace normal skin
after injury. They result from a healing process of wound repair in
the skin.
[0016] Rosacea does not only cause redness and pimples on the nose,
cheeks, chin, and forehead, it also causes small visible blood
vessels on the face and dry and red irritated eyes. Sometimes
redness lasts for days. The causes of rosacea are not known but it
tends to affect people who have fair skin or blush easily.
[0017] Irritated skin refers to skin that is itchy and may also be
red, scaly, dry, flaky, swollen, or blistered. It can be caused by
many factors such as eczema, psoriasis, chemicals, environmental
conditions, expired cosmetics, and allergens.
[0018] Dark spots and blemishes, also called "hyperpigmentation,"
can be induced by various factors, such as intrinsic aging-related
causes (e.g., menopause, hormonal changes), extrinsic aging-related
causes (e.g., photoaging), and factors not related to aging, e.g.,
pregnancy, medications, certain diseases (e.g., lupus, liver
disease, Addison's disease, and pituitary tumors), and hormonal
changes.
[0019] Examples of skin conditions (i.e., related to aging)
include, but are not limited to, wrinkles, loose skin, sagging,
uneven skin tone, dull complexion, and age spots.
[0020] Aging of the skin results from a combination of multiple
factors including intrinsic factors (e.g., slow collagen
production) and extrinsic factors (e.g., sun damage or smoking). It
takes place at a microscopic or biochemical level, but manifests
outwardly as wrinkles, dryness, roughness or dullness, sagging, and
other signs.
[0021] The aqueous Astragalus seed extract solution of this
invention can be prepared by multiple procedures. For example, an
aqueous Astragalus seed extract solution can be prepared by a
method including: (1) soaking dried seeds of Astragalus seed in an
aqueous solution to form a suspension, (2) boiling the suspension
at 100.degree. C. or above at 1 atm for at least 30 minutes, and
(3) filtering the suspension so as to obtain the Astragalus seed
aqueous extract solution.
[0022] In one embodiment, the boiled suspension can be crushed in a
blender for 30 seconds, reheated to a boil, and simmered on low
heat for another 30 minutes.
[0023] In another embodiment, the suspension can be crushed in a
blender for a second time for 30 seconds after the second simmering
step.
[0024] In a particular embodiment, the suspension can be filtered
through a filter cloth to remove insoluble sediment. Additionally,
the filter cloth containing the sediment can be squeezed to extract
additional liquid. Advantageously, the squeezed filter cloth can be
dipped into the extracted liquid and squeezed again so as to
increase the yield of the extract. In another embodiment, the
filtering step can be repeated several times. In a preferred
embodiment, the extract can be concentrated by boiling to obtain an
Astragalus seed extract solution in which the weight ratio of the
dried seeds to the extract solution is 10:100.
[0025] The procedure for obtaining the Astragalus seed aqueous
extract solution can also include the steps of pressure cooking of
a suspension of the seeds or infusing the seeds in alcohol or
oil.
[0026] An effective amount of an aqueous Astragalus seed extract
solution obtained by the above methods can be applied topically to
a skin area in need of reducing or slowing a skin disorder (i.e.,
unrelated to aging) or a skin condition (i.e., related to aging).
The beneficial effects are obtained over a period of time.
[0027] Also within the scope of this invention is a skin care
composition that contains an aqueous Astragalus seed extract
solution and a non-aqueous skin acceptable carrier. The extract
solution is 0.01-75% by weight. The non-aqueous skin acceptable
carrier can be an excipient, a vehicle, or a media for topical
administration. In a preferred embodiment, the skin care
composition contains one or more other ingredients known to have a
beneficial effect on the skin, including, but not limited to,
sunscreens, vitamins, oils, or herbal extracts (e.g., extracted
from fermentation or other methods).
[0028] In one embodiment, an aqueous Astragalus seed extract
solution of this invention can be fermented with rice and then
combined with a non-aqueous or aqueous carrier for skin care.
[0029] The skin care composition of this invention can also contain
other ingredients that are typically found in a cosmetic
formulation including, but not limited to, pigments, perfumes, and
preservatives. The types and amounts of ingredients other than the
aqueous Astragalus seed extract solution can be determined by an
ordinary artisan based on general knowledge in the skin care
industry.
[0030] The skin care composition of this invention can also include
one or more materials typically applied to the skin for treatment.
They include, but are not limited to cream, moisturizer, lotion,
gel, mask, spray, and serum.
[0031] The specific examples below are to be construed as merely
illustrative, and not limitative of the remainder of the disclosure
in any way whatsoever. Without further elaboration, it is believed
that one skilled in the art can, based on the description herein,
utilize the present invention to its fullest extent.
Example 1
Preparation of an Aqueous Astragalus Seed Extract Solution
[0032] Ten grams of dried seeds of Astragalus seed were gently
washed and then soaked in 1500 g of water for 30 minutes. The
thus-obtained suspension was heated to a boil for approximately 5
minutes and then simmered on low heat for 30 minutes. The
suspension was removed from the heat source and crushed in a
blender for 30 seconds. After crushing, the suspension was reheated
to a boil and then simmered on low heat for another 30 minutes. The
suspension was removed from the heat source and again crushed in a
blender for 30 seconds. After crushing, the suspension was reheated
to a boil and then simmered on low heat for another 30 minutes. It
was then cooled to room temperature. The suspension was filtered
through a filter cloth to remove insoluble sediment. The filter
cloth containing the sediment was squeezed so as to extract
additional liquid. To increase yield, the squeezed filter cloth was
dipped into the extracted liquid and squeezed again so as to
extract more of the herbal liquid. The filtering step can be
repeated several times. The remaining liquid was concentrated by
boiling to obtain an Astragalus seed extract solution in which the
weight ratio of the dried seeds to the extract solution is
10:100.
Example 2
Alternative Method for Preparing an Aqueous Astragalus Seed Extract
Solution
[0033] Gently wash 10 g of dried seeds of Astragalus seed. Soak the
seeds in 1500 g of water for 30 minutes. The thus-obtained
suspension is heated to a boil for approximately 5 minutes, then
simmered on low heat for 30 minutes. The suspension is removed from
the heat source and crushed in a blender for 30 seconds. Then, the
suspension is brought to a boil again and simmered for another 5
minutes. After simmering the suspension is cooled to room
temperature and then filtered through a filter cloth to remove
insoluble sediment. The filter cloth containing the remaining
sediment is squeezed to extract more liquid. The filter cloth
containing the sediment is then dipped in the extracted liquid and
squeezed again to extract additional liquid. This step can be
repeated several times. The remaining liquid can be concentrated by
boiling or diluted by addition of water to obtain 100 g of an
Astragalus seed extract solution, in which the weight ratio of the
dried seeds to the extract solution is 10:100.
Example 3
Another Alternative Method for Preparing an Aqueous Astragalus Seed
Extract Solution
[0034] Gently wash 10 g of dried seeds of Astragalus seed and soak
the seeds in 1500 g of water for 30 minutes. The thus-obtained
suspension is heated to a boil for approximately 5 minutes and then
simmered on low heat for 30 minutes. The suspension is removed from
the heat source and crushed in a blender for 30 seconds. The
suspension is then brought to a boil again and simmered for another
30 minutes. The suspension is removed from the heat source and
again crushed in a blender for 30 seconds. The suspension is again
brought to a boil and simmered for another 5 minutes, then cooled
to the room temperature. The suspension is filtered through a
filter cloth to remove insoluble sediment. The filter cloth
containing the remaining sediment is squeezed to extract more
liquid. The filter cloth containing the sediment is then dipped in
the extracted liquid and squeezed again to extract more of the
herbal liquid. This step can be repeated several times. The
remaining liquid can be concentrated by boiling or diluted by
addition of water to obtain 100 g of an Astragalus seed extract
solution, in which the weight ratio of the dried seeds to the
extract solution is 10:100.
Example 4
Additional Method for Preparing an Aqueous Astragalus Seed Extract
Solution
[0035] Gently wash 10 g of dried seeds of Astragalus seed and soak
the seeds in 1500 g of water for 30 minutes. The thus-obtained
suspension is heated to a boil for approximately 5 minutes and then
simmered on low heat for 60 minutes. The suspension is cooled to
room temperature and then filtered through a filter cloth to remove
insoluble sediment. The filter cloth containing the remaining
sediment is squeezed to extract more liquid. The filter cloth
containing the sediment is then dipped in the extracted liquid and
squeezed again to extract more of the herbal liquid. This step can
be repeated several times. The remaining liquid can be concentrated
by boiling or diluted by addition of water to obtain 100 g of an
Astragalus seed extract solution, in which the weight ratio of the
dried seeds to the extract solution is 10:100.
Example 5
Another Embodiment of a Method for Preparing an Aqueous Astragalus
Seed Extract Solution
[0036] Gently wash 10 g of dried seeds of Astragalus seed and soak
the seeds in 1500 g of water for 30 minutes. The thus-obtained
suspension is crushed in a blender for 30 seconds. The suspension
is heated to a boil for approximately 5 minutes, simmered on low
heat for 30 minutes, and cooled to room temperature. The suspension
is then filtered through a filter cloth to remove insoluble
sediment. The filter cloth containing the remaining sediment is
squeezed to extract more liquid. The filter cloth containing the
sediment is then dipped in the extracted liquid and squeezed again
to extract more of the herbal liquid. This step can be repeated
several times. The remaining liquid can be concentrated by boiling
or diluted by addition of water to obtain 100 g of an Astragalus
seed extract solution, in which the weight ratio of the dried seeds
to the extract solution is 10:100.
Example 6
Topical Administration of an Aqueous Astragalus Seed Extract
Solution
[0037] A 42 year old female patient presented with acne, acne marks
on her face, wrinkles in the frown area, and extensive dark spots
caused by sun damage. These symptoms had persisted for about 2
years.
[0038] Clinical examination noted dark spots appearing mainly on
her forehead, especially in the center of the forehead near the
eyebrows, cheek area, and upper lip area. Also observed were
wrinkles in the frown area, acne and acne marks, and blemishes on
the forehead, the lower part of the cheeks, and around the mouth.
Additionally, enlarged skin pores and black heads around the T-zone
area were observed.
[0039] The patient was treated with a 6% aqueous extract solution
of Astragalus complanatus. The extract was applied twice daily,
with 10 drops applied in the morning and 10 drops applied in the
evening after cleaning the face.
[0040] Following treatment for 2.5 weeks, the patient reported a
reduction in wrinkles, dark circles, age spots and discolorations,
acne, acne marks, dark spots, blemishes, and dull skin. The patient
also reported improved suppleness, skin texture, radiance, and a
reduced occurrence of blackheads.
[0041] Clinical observations included a significant lightening of
dark spots on the patient's forehead. Acne scars on the right side
of her forehead were diminished in color and size. Frown wrinkles
were shortened and thinner. A significant lightening of dark spots
on the bridge of her nose was observed. Also observed was a
significant diminishment of acne, blemishes, and dark spots on the
left side of the face. An acne scar under the right eye was
diminished in color and size. Additionally, pores were diminished
in size, particularly on the nose. There was an overall improvement
in radiance and complexion.
Example 7
Treatment of Age Spots with an Aqueous Astragalus Seed Extract
Solution
[0042] A 48 year old female patient complained of age spots on the
face and redness on her left cheek.
[0043] Clinical observations included dark spots on the cheeks and
around nasal area, redness on the left cheek, and enlarged pores on
the nose.
[0044] The patient was treated with a 6% aqueous extract solution
of Astragalus complanatus. The extract was applied twice daily to
the left side of the face, with 5 drops applied in the morning and
5 drops applied in the evening after cleaning the face.
[0045] After 3 weeks of treatment, the patient reported lightening
of dark spots, less redness, and a significant reduction in pore
size.
[0046] Upon examination, the left cheek demonstrated significantly
reduced redness and diminished dark spots. On the nose, pores were
diminished in size, and dark spots were diminished in
appearance.
Example 8
Treatment of Acne with an Aqueous Astragalus Seed Extract
Solution
[0047] A 13 year old male presented with acne breakouts. Acne
blemishes were particularly severe on the forehead. Redness was
also observed on the cheeks and surrounding the nose.
[0048] The patient was treated with a 6% aqueous extract solution
of Astragalus complanatus. The extract was applied twice daily,
with 10 drops applied in the morning and 10 drops applied in the
evening after cleaning the face.
[0049] After 2 weeks of treatment, the patient reported a
significant reduction in acne breakouts on his forehead.
[0050] A clinical evaluation after 7.5 weeks of treatment
demonstrated a dramatic reduction of acne and acne marks on the
forehead.
OTHER EMBODIMENTS
[0051] All of the features disclosed in this specification may be
combined in any combination. Each feature disclosed in this
specification may be replaced by an alternative feature serving the
same, equivalent, or similar purpose. Thus, unless expressly stated
otherwise, each feature disclosed is only an example of a generic
series of equivalent or similar features.
[0052] From the above description, one skilled in the art can
easily ascertain the essential characteristics of the present
invention, and without departing from the spirit and scope thereof,
can make various changes and modifications of the invention to
adapt it to various usages and conditions. Thus, other embodiments
are also within the scope of the following claims.
* * * * *