Centella Asiatica (Cica): What the Research Shows About This Soothing Herb

July 10, 2026

Cica creams and serums have become hugely popular for calming skin. The ingredient behind the name is centella asiatica, a plant used in traditional medicine for a very long time.

What the research says

An overview of centella asiatica in dermatology describes its active compounds, including asiaticoside, madecassoside and asiatic acid, and summarises in vitro and in vivo studies on its role in supporting the healing of small wounds, scars and skin (Bylka et al., 2014, PMID 24399761). In skincare, it is most valued for its soothing, calming feel on stressed or reactive skin.

Where cica fits

Calming skin that feels sensitive, reactive or over-exfoliated.
Supporting the skin barrier alongside gentle cleansing and hydration.
Pairing well with other soothing ingredients in a pared-back routine.

At Verdo we stock soothing options for reactive skin, including the Medik8 Calmwise Serum and the Medik8 Gentle Cleanse.

Disclaimer: This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. The studies cited are from peer-reviewed journals and are provided for educational context. Individual results vary. Speak with a qualified healthcare professional or dermatologist before changing your routine. Verdo Cosmetics makes no therapeutic claims about the products or services mentioned.

Frequently asked questions

What is cica in skincare?

Cica is short for centella asiatica, a plant whose active compounds include asiaticoside and madecassoside. An overview summarises research on its role in supporting the healing of small wounds and skin (Bylka et al., 2014). In skincare it is valued for its soothing feel.

Is centella asiatica good for sensitive skin?

It is widely used to calm sensitive, reactive or over-exfoliated skin thanks to its soothing profile. It pairs well with gentle cleansing and hydration in a simple routine.

What does madecassoside do?

Madecassoside is one of the active triterpene compounds in centella asiatica that researchers study for the plant's soothing and skin-supporting effects.

Can I use cica with other actives?

Yes, it is generally gentle and pairs well with soothing routines. If your skin is irritated from strong actives, cica-style soothing ingredients can be a comforting step while the barrier settles.

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