Tepezcohuite: Why You Should Know About This Lesser-Known Ingredient

Experience the magic of this mystical ingredient overnight and marvel at the results.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Farhaad Riyaz, MD, FAAD, FACMS
Written by Ramona Sinha, MA (English Literature), Certified Skin Care Coach
Edited by Eshna Das, BA, MSc
Fact-checked by Shiboli Chakraborti, MA (English Literature), Certified Skin Care Coach  • 

After Salma Hayek revealed Tepezcohuite as her secret anti-aging and skin care ingredient, it has gained worldwide attention. Crushed Tepezcohuite bark was used by Mayan healers for its “magic effects” of treating burns and healing wounds without leaving scars. Many became intrigued with using tepezcohuite for skin regeneration and rejuvenation, and minimizing aging signs.

Tepezcohuite is a tree native to South America. The Mayans used the powdered bark of the tree to treat skin lesions. It is popularly used to treat burns, improve wrinkles, fade stretch marks, manage acne, and promote hair growth in Mexico.

However, what does science say about the claimed benefits of tepezcohuite? Read on to learn the truth about tepezcohuite, its benefits, and its risks.

protip_icon Know Your Ingredient: Tepezcohuite

What Is It?
The extract of a perennial tree with therapeutic properties

What Are Its Benefits?
It mainly helps with wound healing and may minimize pigmentation, premature signs of aging, and skin inflammation caused by acne.

Who Can Use It?
Anyone can use it as it is safe for all skin types, including sensitive skin.

How Often?
Follow the instructions on the package for topical products or speak with the doctor to determine the frequency.

Caution
Pregnant and lactating women should avoid using it. Oral intake may also cause adverse effects.

What Is Tepezcohuite?

What is tepezcohuite
Image: Shutterstock

Tepezcohuite is a perennial tree that grows in Brazil and Mexico. It is also popularly known as Mimosa tenuiflora, mimosa hostilis, calumbi, jurema preta, and binho de jurema. The extract of this Mexican herb is used in many traditional remedies, medicines and cosmetic formulations. It contains high levels of tannins, shows excellent therapeutic properties, and is a potent antimicrobial ingredient (1).

protip_icon Did You Know?
Tepezcohuite was used to treat burns in the survivors of a gas explosion in Mexico City in 1974.

Tepezcohuite is a lesser-known organic ingredient that is increasingly getting popular for its amazing anti-aging properties. Read on to know all the benefits of tepezcohuite for your skin.

Benefits Of Tepezcohuite For Skin

Note: Despite claims that tepezcohuite can treat aging, acne, and psoriasisi  XA chronic skin condition characterized by itchy, scaly rashes, usually on the knees, elbows, trunk, and scalp. , no research trials are available on the subject. Evidence regarding the efficacy of this ingredient is anecdotal.

1. Wound Healing

Woman using tepezcohuite for skin wound
Image: Shutterstock

Tepezcohuite extract may help manage inflammation, promote fibroblast (collagen-producing cells) proliferation to heal wounds (2). It contains compounds like saponinsi  XDiverse and complex plant compounds found in all legume cells that form soapy foam when mixed with water. , tanninsi  XChemicals found in certain plants and foods, medicines, fabrics, and ink that are also being tested for preventing cancer and heart issues. , and flavonoids, known to improve skin health and rejuvenate it. The direct application of the powdered bark can promote skin regeneration and help treat skin burns and wounds (1), (3).

2. Anti-Aging

Woman using tepezcohuite for her wrinkles
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Image: Shutterstock

Tepezcohuite contains flavonoids, which are naturally occurring antioxidants that protect the skin from infection and improve its health. Flavonoids have anti-inflammatory and photoprotective properties and can help minimize pigmentation and slow down premature aging (4).

Anecdotal evidence suggests that applying tepezcohuite bark powder or plant extracts to the skin can prevent moisture loss, leading to plump, radiant skin. Human trials are yet to be conducted to study its effects on the skin, meaning we need more evidence.

protip_icon Fun Fact
Mexican-American actress Salma Hayek uses tepezcohuite to keep her skin nourished and youthful.

3. Antibacterial

Tepezcohuite has antimicrobial and antibacterial properties and is beneficial in treating leg ulcers and skin lesions (1). The tannins and flavonoids are responsible for the ingredient’s antibacterial benefits (5).

However, this claim is not supported by concrete research evidence and needs to be studied further for more insight.

4. Anti-Inflammatory

Tepezcohuite may benefit woman with skin inflammation
Image: Shutterstock

Tepezcohuite extract has anti-inflammatory benefits through their naturally produced tannins, and its strong antioxidant properties can help reduce skin inflammation caused by acne. It may also neutralize free radicalsi  XUnstable molecules created during cell metabolism that can damage DNA, lipids, and proteins and increase the risk of disease. , that are one of the main causes of premature skin aging.

5. Pain Reliever

Tepezcohuite extract, derived from the bark of the Mimosa tenuiflora tree, has been traditionally used for its analgesic properties. Tepezcohuite is rich in tannins, flavonoids, and various active compounds, and is believed to possess natural pain-relieving qualities. It works by inhibiting the production of certain enzymes that contribute to pain signaling.

A study conducted on animals to assess the pain-relieving and anti-swelling effects of tepezcohuite bark extract found that it could reduce pain and swelling effectively (1). However, further research is needed to fully understand its analgesic effects, but the findings point to its potential in the realm of pain management, providing hope for individuals looking for non-conventional pain relief solutions.

protip_icon Quick Tip
You can also use dried tepezcohuite powder as a topical wash to treat several skin conditions.

From tepezcohuite creams and lotions to soaps – you can find this ingredient in many common skin care products. Next, let’s understand the best way to use these products.

How To Use Tepezcohuite Products

Woman using tepezcohuite cream for her skin
Image: Shutterstock

It is best to follow the manufacturer’s instructions while using a skin care product with tepezcohuite.

  • You can apply creams and lotions to your skin and leave them overnight.
  • If you are using ointments, ensure you apply them only to the affected area.
  • Be extremely cautious before using any product with tepezcohuite. Consult a doctor and do a patch test beforehand to avoid skin reactions.

Side Effects Of Tepezcohuite

Research is extremely limited about tepezcohuite and its effects on the skin. Therefore, there is no such information regarding its topical side effects.

There is only limited evidence regarding its oral consumption. However, animal studies demonstrated that consuming the seeds and fresh leaves might result in abnormalities in the fetus or even embryonic death (6), (7). It also contains psychoactive compoundsi  XSubstances that, when consumed, alter mental activity, such as perception, consciousness, cognition, or emotions.   that may be of concern.

Since there is not enough evidence regarding potential negative effects on our health, it is wise to avoid using it on the skin and consuming it as an herbal medicine. Do not use it if you are pregnant or lactating.

If you are using tepezcohuite cream or ointment, follow the doctor’s guidelines.

How Often Can You Use Tepezcohuite?

There is no evidence to determine the appropriate use of tepezcohuite and ascertain its correct dosage. For topical creams and serums, follow the guidelines on the package or consult your doctor to know the frequency of usage.

Infographic: Top 4 Advantages Of Using Tepezcohuite For The Skin

While tepezcohuite was used by ancient Mayans to treat skin lesions, today, it is used to treat burns, slow down signs of aging, and manage acne due to its skin-regenerating and anti-inflammatory properties. We have rounded up the various ways in which this therapeutic plant can benefit your skin. Check out the infographic below to know more!

top 4 advantages of using tepezcohuite for skin (infographic)

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

Get the high-quality PDF version of this infographic.

Download Infographic in PDF version

Tepezcohuite for skin is steadily gaining popularity as an anti-aging ingredient in skin care products. It is commonly used for medicinal purposes to heal burns and wounds. Tepezcohuite has skin-regenerative qualities and is said to have anti-aging benefits. However, more empirical data is needed to confirm its efficacy and safety in dermatology. If you are curious about this plant-based ingredient and want to try it, consult a doctor first and understand its health implications. Use this natural remedy only under medical supervision or as suggested by the doctor. This will help you avoid any side effects.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does tepezcohuite help with scars?

Yes. Tepezcohuite is packed with beneficial compounds like antioxidants that may help boost your skin’s regeneration properties and heal scars.

Is tepezcohuite good for eczema?

Yes. Tepezcohuite contains anti-inflammatory agents that may help reduce any inflammation related to eczema.

Can Tepezcohuite be used in combination with other skin care products?

You can use a Tepezcohuite cream after an AHA or BHA peel to soothe your skin, but it is best to consult a specialist before using it with other ingredients.

Is Tepezcohuite safe for long-term use on the skin?

Anecdotal evidence suggests that Tepezcohuite does not cause any adverse effects on the skin after long-term use, but it is best to consult with a doctor before using it daily.

Key Takeaways

  • Tepezcohuite, also known as calumbi, is a tree native to Mexico and Brazil.
  • It has been used for thousands of years to treat various skin problems.
  • Reducing inflammation and slowing down the aging process are some of the benefits of using tepezcohuite.
  • Pregnant women and lactating mothers should avoid using tepezcohuite.
Tepezcohuite for skin

Image: Stable Diffusion/StyleCraze Design Team


Explore the benefits of using tepezcohuite for your skin in this captivating video. Discover the potential wonders this natural ingredient can add to your skincare routine.

References

Articles on StyleCraze are backed by verified information from peer-reviewed and academic research papers, reputed organizations, research institutions, and medical associations to ensure accuracy and relevance. Read our editorial policy to learn more.

  1. Antinoceptive and Anti-inflammatory Activities of the Ethanolic Extract
    Fractions and Flavones Isolated from Mimosa tenuiflora (Willd.) Poir (Leguminosae)
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26954375/
  2. Characterization and evaluation of a novel O-carboxymethyl chitosan films with Mimosa tenuiflora extract for skin regeneration and wound healing
    https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/0883911519885976?journalCode=jbca
  3. Chitosan /Mimosa Tenuiflora films as potential cellular patch for skin regeneration
    https://www.researchgate.net/publication/308724960_Chitosan_Mimosa_Tenuiflora_films_as_potential_cellular_patch_for_skin_regeneration
  4. Recent advances in topical delivery of flavonoids: A review
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30682442/
  5. Mimosa tenuiflora’s antimicrobial activity on bacteria and fungi from medical importance: an integrative review
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33885936/
  6. Teratogenicity of Mimosa tenuiflora seeds to pregnant rats
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18078971/
  7. Mimosa tenuiflora as a cause of malformations in ruminants in the northeastern Brazilian semiarid rangelands
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18039908/
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