Cosmetics · Plant extracts
Lindera Umbellata Branch/Leaf Extract
クロモジエキス (Kuromoji ekisu)
Also known as: Kuromoji Extract
At a glance
| Category | Cosmetics |
|---|---|
| INCI name | Lindera Umbellata Branch/Leaf Extract |
| Japanese labeling name | クロモジエキス |
| Common Japanese notations | クロモジエキス, クロモジ葉エキス |
| Origin | Plant-derived (Lindera umbellata, kuromoji) |
| Typical functions | Skin conditioning, Fragrance, Antioxidant |
| Regulatory status in Japan | Cosmetic ingredient listed in the JSCI labeling name dictionary. |
Kuromoji (Lindera umbellata) is a small native Japanese shrub historically prized for its fragrant branches — the polished young branches are the traditional material for premium wagashi picks (kuromoji tsumayōji). Cosmetic interest in the plant is relatively recent, concentrated around its distinctive fresh-woody aroma and a growing body of traditional-use-informed positioning.
Classification
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Product applications
Functions
Regulatory tags
Origin
Used in (typical product categories)
Finished-product categories that commonly include this ingredient in Japanese-market formulations.
- Facial toners and essences
- Aromatic blends
- Bath additives
- Artisanal soap
What it is
Kuromoji extract is produced by water or hydro-alcoholic extraction of the branches and leaves of Lindera umbellata. The extract and the corresponding essential oil (kuromoji essential oil) concentrate linalool, terpinolene, and other monoterpene constituents that give the plant its characteristic aroma.
Kuromoji essential oil is a distinct product from the extract, with its own supply channel — often small-scale regional distillation — and its own cosmetic use cases.
Typical uses in Japanese products
In modern Japanese cosmetics, kuromoji extract appears in facial toners, essences, artisanal soaps, and aromatic blends positioning around Japanese botanical heritage. The aroma works well as a standalone or in combination with hinoki, hiba, and sugi.
The ingredient is increasingly associated with small-batch, regionally-produced cosmetic lines that source from specific forestry regions.
Regulatory classification in Japan
Listed in the JSCI Japanese Cosmetic Ingredient Codex under クロモジエキス and permitted as a cosmetic ingredient.
Regulatory classification in other markets
| EU | Listed in CosIng under the INCI name Lindera Umbellata Branch/Leaf Extract. Permitted for cosmetic use. |
|---|---|
| USA | INCI recognized by PCPC. |
| China | Suppliers should verify the specific preparation against IECIC listings. |
| Korea | Permitted as a cosmetic ingredient under the KFDA / MFDS system. |
Example products
Example finished products will be added after each product's current full ingredient list has been verified.
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Related ingredients
References
- JSCI labeling name directory — クロモジエキス
- EU CosIng entry: Lindera Umbellata Branch/Leaf Extract
Last updated: 2026-04-22. Ingredient entries are reviewed at least annually against current regulatory listings.