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.
