How to obtain kale extract?

Kale belongs to the large family of common cabbages or Brassicaceae. There are several varieties, including black kale, curly kale, or Russian red kale. This plant is recognisable by its large purple, pale green or dark leaves, and its smooth or curly texture, depending on the variety.

Here are its main characteristics:

• Latin name: Brassica oleracea;

• Family: Brassicaceae;

• Treated parts: leaves;

• Active ingredients: proteins, omega 3-6-9 and antioxidants.

The liquid extract of kale is obtained by cold maceration of the dried leaves of this plant in order to preserve essential broad-spectrum actives. This technique involves soaking the dried leaves in a sealed container, in a cool place, and at room temperature. The solvent used can be a mixture of alcohol and water to prevent fermentation and/or deterioration of the solution. After maceration, the liquid is drained, filtered, and then bottled. Some kale liquid extracts may constitute a mixture of kale distillate and propanediol, obtained through a specific manufacturing technology. Of plant origin, propanediol refers to a biodegradable solvent free from petrochemical products. This derivative of corn sugar is an eco-friendly alternative to glycols (derived from petroleum) in skin and hair care formulations.

• FUENTER-SALCIDO N. M. & al. The value of bioactive compounds of cruciferous vegetables (Brassica) as antimicrobials and antioxidants: A review. Journal of Food Biochemistry (2020).