Ferulic Acid

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Ferulic Acid is a naturally occurring hydroxycinnamic acid classified as a phenolic compound with potent antioxidant properties. It exists as a pale yellow to light brown crystalline powder with a faint characteristic odor. Ferulic Acid is commonly found in the cell walls of various plants such as rice bran, wheat, oats, coffee, apples, and fruits, where it plays a role in plant structural integrity and defense against environmental stress. It is valued across multiple industries—cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, food, and agriculture—due to its ability to neutralize free radicals, absorb UV radiation, and exhibit anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activities.

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Categories: Active Ingredient, Antioxidants Tags: Antioxidant, Cosmetic ingredient, Ferulic Acid, Nutraceutical, Pharmaceutical ingredient

Description

Table of Contents

Ferulic Acid

Primary Uses

Cosmetics and Personal Care

Acts as a powerful antioxidant in anti-aging skin care formulations, protecting skin cells from oxidative damage caused by UV radiation and pollution.
Enhances the stability and effectiveness of vitamins C and E in topical formulations, boosting photoprotection and reducing signs of skin aging such as fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation.
Functions as a natural UV absorber, contributing to sunscreens and daily moisturizers with SPF.
Used in serums, creams, lotions, and facial masks to improve skin texture, elasticity, and overall appearance.

Pharmaceutical and Nutraceutical Industry

Incorporated as an active ingredient in dietary supplements for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cardioprotective effects.
Supports cardiovascular health by helping to reduce oxidative stress and improve blood circulation.
Investigated for neuroprotective properties that may help prevent or delay neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
Potential chemopreventive agent studied for anti-cancer effects due to its ability to inhibit tumor growth and proliferation in lab studies.
Used in formulations targeting metabolic syndrome, diabetes, and liver protection.

Food Industry

Functions as a natural antioxidant additive to retard lipid oxidation and extend shelf life in oils, fats, and processed foods.
Enhances the stability and nutritional profile of baked goods, beverages, and functional foods.
Acts as a flavor enhancer and color stabilizer in various food products.
Employed in natural food preservation to replace synthetic antioxidants.

Agriculture and Plant Protection

Used as a bio-stimulant in crop protection to strengthen plant cell walls and enhance resistance to pathogens and environmental stresses such as UV radiation and drought.
Exhibits natural antimicrobial and antifungal properties, reducing reliance on synthetic pesticides.
Applied in formulations to improve plant vigor and yield.

Secondary Uses

Biomedical Research

Utilized as a biochemical probe to study oxidative stress and inflammatory pathways.
Investigated for its hepatoprotective effects in liver injury models.
Used in experimental neuroprotection and chemoprevention studies.

Material Science and Packaging

Incorporated as a natural antioxidant additive in biodegradable polymer films and packaging materials to improve shelf life and reduce oxidative degradation.
Explored in active packaging systems for food preservation.

Textile Industry

Employed as an antioxidant and UV stabilizer in fabric finishing to improve color retention and fabric durability under sunlight exposure.

KEY PRODUCT ATTRIBUTES

1. Basic Identification Attributes

Chemical Name (IUPAC): (E)-3-(4-Hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl)prop-2-enoic acid
Common/Trade Name: Ferulic Acid
CAS Number: 1135-24-6
HS Code: 2915.90.90
Molecular Formula: C10H10O4
Synonyms: 4-Hydroxy-3-methoxycinnamic acid; 3-(4-Hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl)acrylic acid

2. Physical & Chemical Properties

Physical State: Crystalline powder
Color & Odor: Pale yellow to light brown; faint characteristic odor
Melting Point: 170–174 °C
Boiling Point: Decomposes before boiling
Density: ~1.53 g/cm³
Solubility: Slightly soluble in water; soluble in ethanol, ethyl acetate, and DMSO
pH: Weakly acidic; pKa approx. 4.58
Stability: Stable under dry, cool, dark storage; sensitive to light and oxidation

3. Safety & Hazard Attributes

Hazard Class (GHS): Not classified as hazardous; generally safe
Toxicity: Low acute toxicity; non-irritant at typical use levels
Exposure Limits: No occupational exposure limits established

4. Storage & Handling Attributes

Storage Conditions: Store in tightly sealed containers in a cool, dry, dark place to prevent oxidation and moisture uptake
Container Type: Glass or high-density polyethylene containers with moisture-proof packaging
Shelf Life: Up to 24 months under recommended storage conditions
Handling Precautions: Avoid dust inhalation and prolonged skin contact; minimize light and air exposure

5. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes

Approved for use in food, cosmetics, and dietary supplements by FDA, EFSA, and other regulatory bodies
Registered under REACH for industrial and cosmetic applications
Usage limits regulated according to product type and country

6. Environmental & Health Impact

Biodegradability: Readily biodegradable in aerobic conditions
Ecotoxicity: Low toxicity to aquatic organisms at environmental concentrations
Bioaccumulation: Not expected to bioaccumulate
Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity: Not classified; no evidence of carcinogenic or mutagenic effects

SAFETY HANDLING PRECAUTIONS

Safety Handling Precautions

PPE Required: Protective gloves, safety goggles, dust mask when handling powder
Handling Guidelines: Use in well-ventilated areas; avoid dust generation and inhalation; avoid skin and eye contact
Storage Measures: Keep containers tightly closed, store away from heat, light, moisture, and incompatible materials
Hygiene Practices: Wash hands thoroughly after handling; do not eat, drink, or smoke in work areas

First Aid Measures

Inhalation: Move to fresh air immediately; seek medical attention if irritation or discomfort occurs
Skin Contact: Wash affected area thoroughly with soap and water; seek medical advice if irritation develops
Eye Contact: Rinse eyes with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes; consult physician if irritation persists
Ingestion: Rinse mouth thoroughly; not expected to be harmful in small amounts; seek medical attention if large amounts ingested

Firefighting Measures

Fire Hazards: Combustible solid; may emit toxic fumes such as carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide upon burning
Extinguishing Media: Water spray, foam, dry chemical, or carbon dioxide (CO₂)
Special Precautions: Firefighters should wear self-contained breathing apparatus and protective gear
Decomposition Products: Carbon oxides and other toxic fumes