(+)-Bakuchiol
[CAS# 10309-37-2]

Identification

• Classification: Natural product >> Natural phenols
• Name: (+)-Bakuchiol
• Synonyms: (S)-(+)-Bakuchiol; (S)-Bakuchiol; Drupanol; UP 256; 4-[(1E,3S)-3-Ethenyl-3,7-dimethyl-1,6-octadien-1-yl]phenol
• Molecular Formula: C₁₈H₂₄O
• Molecular Weight: 256.38
• CAS Registry Number: 10309-37-2
• EC Number: 685-515-4
• SMILES: CC(=CCC[C@@](C)(C=C)/C=C/C1=CC=C(C=C1)O)C

Properties

• Solubility: 10mM (DMSO)
• Density: 0.963
• Boiling point: 391 °C
• Flash point: 177 °C

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS09 Warning
• Risk Statements: H400-H410
• Safety Statements: P273-P391-P501

Hazard Classification

Hazard	Class	Category Code	Hazard Statement
Acute hazardous to the aquatic environment	Aquatic Acute	1	H400
Chronic hazardous to the aquatic environment	Aquatic Chronic	1	H410

Discovery and Applications

(+)-Bakuchiol is a terpene phenol that was first isolated in the 1960s from the seeds of *Psoralea corylifolia*, a plant traditionally used in Chinese and Indian medicine. Its structure C18H24O was elucidated by various spectroscopic methods. (+)-Bakuchiol, similar to resveratrol, quickly gained interest for its potential therapeutic properties. Researchers recognized its wide range of biological activities, laying the foundation for extensive research into its medicinal applications. The discovery of (+)-Bakuchiol marked a major advancement in natural product chemistry, highlighting the therapeutic potential of plant-derived compounds.

One of the most prominent applications of (+)-Bakuchiol is in the skin care and cosmetics industry. (+)-Bakuchiol is well known for its anti-aging properties and is often compared to the widely used anti-aging ingredient retinol. Unlike retinol, (+)-Bakuchiol is non-irritating and suitable for sensitive skin. It helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, improves skin elasticity, and promotes an even skin tone. Its antioxidant properties protect the skin from free radical damage.

(+)-Bakuchiol has powerful antibacterial properties and is effective against a variety of bacterial and fungal infections. It is particularly useful in treating skin conditions such as acne, where its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects help reduce acne and inflammation. In traditional medicine, (+)-Bakuchiol has been used to treat conditions such as eczema and psoriasis for its soothing and healing properties.

Research shows that (+)-bakuchiol has significant antioxidant properties that help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body. These antioxidant effects contribute to its potential anticancer properties. Studies have shown that (+)-bakuchiol can inhibit the growth of various cancer cell lines, including breast, prostate, and lung cancer. Its ability to induce apoptosis (programmed cell death) in cancer cells makes it a promising compound for further investigation in cancer prevention and treatment.

In traditional Chinese and Indian medicine, (+)-bakuchiol has been used for hundreds of years to treat a variety of conditions. It is commonly used for its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties. Traditional applications include treating skin conditions, improving liver function, and enhancing overall vitality.

Due to its diverse biological activities, (+)-bakuchiol is a candidate for drug development. Its potential therapeutic benefits extend beyond skin care to include applications in treating chronic conditions such as arthritis and diabetes.

References

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