Glycyrrhetinic acid
Description
Glycyrrhetinic acid (CAS 471-53-4), also known as uralenic acid, is a pentacyclic triterpenoid derived from licorice root extract. In personal care and cosmetics, it functions as a skin-conditioning active.
In flavoring applications, it contributes to the characteristic licorice taste profile of finished products. In cosmetic formulations, it is used in anti-inflammatory creams, serums, and spot-treatment products.
Formulators incorporate it into whitening and brightening preparations where it acts as a tyrosinase modulator. This helps to reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation and redness in various skin types.
In the flavor industry, it is used as a flavoring agent and acidulant in confectionery and oral care products. It is also utilized in tobacco flavoring systems where a licorice character is required.
It appears in topical pharmaceutical preparations as a functional active in formulations addressing minor skin irritation. The material is supplied as a white to off-white crystalline powder for industrial use.
It is available in cosmetic-grade and pharmaceutical-grade specifications, with purity levels typically ranging from 95% to 98% by HPLC. These standards ensure high performance in sensitive applications.
Bulk quantities are offered in kilogram and multi-kilogram packaging to suit both development-scale and commercial production requirements. We ensure consistent quality for all global manufacturing needs.
Physical Properties
| Melting Point | 296 °C |
| Boiling Point | 687.4 °C |
| Density | 0.9967 (rough estimate) |
| Appearance | white or greyish-white crystalline powder |
| Color | White to off-white |
| Form | Crystalline Powder |
| Water Solubility | SOLUBLE IN ACETIC ACID |
| Vapor Pressure | 10-220Pa at 20-50℃ |
| Refractive Index | 162 ° (C=1, MeOH) |
| Log P | 4.5 at 20℃ |
Safety & Handling (Learn More)
Trade & Regulatory
| HS Code | 29189900 |
| Storage Class | 11 - Combustible Solids |
| WGK (Germany) | 3 |
Documentation
Other Names
Uralenic acid|Glycyrrhetic Acid|beta-Glycyrrhetic acid|b-Glycyrrhetic acid|alpha-Glycyrrhetinic acid|a-Glycyrrhetinic acid|3b-Hydroxy-11-oxoolean-12-en-30-oic acid|3b-Hydroxy-11-oxoolean-12-en-30-oate
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