Centella Compounds: Asiaticoside, Madecassoside, Asiatic & Madecassic Acid

Asiaticoside, madecassoside, asiatic acid and madecassic acid are four important triterpenes associated with Centella asiatica. They are chemically related, but they are not four interchangeable names for the same ingredient. Knowing the differences helps you read a cica label without assuming that every extract supplies the same blend.

The four names, explained

“Glycoside” indicates a molecule linked to a sugar portion; “aglycone” refers to the non-sugar part. This chemistry can influence solubility and formulation. It does not create a ranking of which ingredient is strongest for your face.

Chemical analysis of Centella extracts has measured these compounds and shown that the extract’s composition matters. An ingredient list naming whole Centella extract does not disclose its individual triterpene concentrations.

What do laboratory mechanisms mean?

Research may examine cell signaling, oxidative stress, fibroblast behavior or proteins involved in skin structure. In madecassoside cell research, investigators studied inflammation-related pathways and hydration-associated markers. Those endpoints help scientists form hypotheses; they do not show that an ordinary cream repairs a person’s skin barrier, removes scars or increases facial collagen.

Three details must remain separate: the tested molecule, the amount delivered to the cells, and the product applied to human skin. A topical cosmetic has to release an ingredient from its base, remain stable and be tolerated. A laboratory experiment does not answer all of those questions.

Why wound-healing research needs its own boundary

A randomized post-laser study tested a standardized Centella preparation in a supervised procedure setting. That is a different intervention from putting an untested cica serum on everyday skin. It does not make a cosmetic suitable for open wounds, burns or fresh procedures.

After a procedure, follow the treating clinician’s aftercare instructions. A plant name or a familiar compound is not evidence that your particular product belongs in that plan.

Extract, standardized extract and isolated compound

• Whole extract: a preparation containing multiple plant constituents, with a composition that depends on its production.
• Standardized extract: a preparation made to specified amounts of selected constituents. The specification still needs to be disclosed and relevant to the claim.
• Isolated compound: a named constituent such as madecassoside. Its presence does not disclose the dose or prove that the finished formula has been clinically tested.

For example, an extract percentage and a madecassoside percentage measure different things. You cannot compare them as though both represent the same material. Our Centella percentage and formulation guide explains how to ask better questions about those numbers.

How much chemistry do you need to choose a product?

You do not need all four compounds on a label. Start with your goal and the complete formula: a moisturizer for dryness, a tolerable optional serum, or an area-specific product. Then look for meaningful ingredient identification and product evidence.

For a closer look at the best-known constituent, read madecassoside for skin. For practical selection criteria, use how to choose Centella skincare. The Centella ingredient pillar connects this chemistry to everyday cosmetic use.

Sources and evidence

• Hashim et al., 2011: Centella triterpene composition and laboratory activity
• Shen et al., 2019: madecassoside experiments in cultured cells
• Damkerngsuntorn et al., 2020: standardized extract after laser resurfacing

By Herbal Dynamics Beauty • Updated October 1, 2026