The present invention relates to a composition containing an extract from the Polygonum minus for cognition and cosmetic purposes. The extract of Polygonum minus includes quercetin-3-glucuronide and quercitrin. Extract of Polygonum minus is provided in an amount effective to reduce oxidative damage. A process for isolation of an active extract from Polygonum minus includes the steps of a) subjecting the Polygonum minus including aerial parts of the plant to solvent extraction preferably with a material solvent ratio of 1:10-20 by percolation at a temperature range of 70-105° C. preferably 80° C. to obtain the extract; and b) filtering the extract obtained from step (a) followed by concentration and drying involving freeze drying, spray drying or vacuum belt drying to obtain therefrom the dry extract powder.