The cosmetic active ingredient according to the invention comprises the combination of the extracts of at least three plants: Astragalus membranaceus, Bupleurum falcatum and Atractylodes macrocephalae. It can be incorporated in a topical composition and be used to improve the appearance and general condition of the skin and its annexes, in particular for the treatment and/or prevention of signs of aging, and/or imperfections of the skin and its annexes.