Aloe-emodin
[CAS# 481-72-1]

Identification

• Classification: Biochemical >> Chinese herbal medicine ingredients
• Name: Aloe-emodin
• Synonyms: 1,8-Dihydroxy-3-(hydroxymethyl)anthraquinone
• Molecular Formula: C₁₅H₁₀O₅
• Molecular Weight: 270.24
• CAS Registry Number: 481-72-1
• EC Number: 207-571-7
• SMILES: C1=CC2=C(C(=C1)O)C(=O)C3=C(C2=O)C=C(C=C3O)CO

Properties

• Density: 1.6±0.1 g/cm³ Calc.^*
• Melting point: 223 - 224 ºC (Expl.)
• Boiling point: 568.8±50.0 ºC 760 mmHg (Calc.)^*
• Flash point: 311.9±26.6 ºC (Calc.)^*
• Solubility: soluble (water, hot alcohol, methanol, chloroform), 50 mg/mL (DMSO) (Expl.)
• Index of refraction: 1.746 (Calc.)^*

^* Calculated using Advanced Chemistry Development (ACD/Labs) Software.

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS07 Warning
• Hazard Statements: H315-H319-H335
• Precautionary Statements: P261-P264-P264+P265-P271-P280-P302+P352-P304+P340-P305+P351+P338-P319-P321-P332+P317-P337+P317-P362+P364-P403+P233-P405-P501

Hazard Classification

Hazard	Class	Category Code	Hazard Statement
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2	H319
Skin irritation	Skin Irrit.	2	H315
Specific target organ toxicity - single exposure	STOT SE	3	H335
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	4	H302

Discovory and Applicatios

Aloe-emodin is a naturally occurring anthraquinone derivative primarily isolated from plants of the genus Aloe, as well as from other species such as *Rheum* and Cassia. Chemically, it is characterized by the presence of hydroxyl groups at the 1 and 8 positions of the anthraquinone skeleton and a hydroxymethyl group at the 3 position, which contribute to its biological activity. Aloe-emodin has been extensively studied for its pharmacological properties, particularly in the context of gastrointestinal, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer effects.

The discovery of aloe-emodin dates back to the early studies on the chemical constituents of *Aloe vera* and other medicinal plants. Researchers identified it as one of the primary anthraquinones responsible for the laxative effect of aloe extracts. Its isolation and structural elucidation were facilitated by chromatographic and spectroscopic techniques, leading to further investigations of its therapeutic potential beyond gastrointestinal applications.

Pharmacologically, aloe-emodin exhibits notable laxative and purgative effects, which are attributed to its ability to stimulate intestinal motility and promote fluid secretion in the colon. This property has historically supported its use in the treatment of constipation and related gastrointestinal disorders. In addition, aloe-emodin demonstrates anti-inflammatory activity by modulating the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and inhibiting enzymes such as cyclooxygenase and nitric oxide synthase, contributing to its potential in managing inflammatory conditions.

Aloe-emodin has also been investigated for its anticancer properties. In vitro studies have shown that it can induce apoptosis, inhibit proliferation, and arrest the cell cycle in various cancer cell lines, including colon, liver, and breast cancer. Mechanistically, these effects are mediated through the modulation of multiple signaling pathways, including the p53, MAPK, and PI3K/Akt pathways, highlighting its potential as a chemopreventive or therapeutic agent. Additionally, aloe-emodin exhibits antioxidant activity, scavenging reactive oxygen species and protecting cells from oxidative damage, which complements its anti-inflammatory and anticancer effects.

The bioavailability of aloe-emodin is limited due to its low water solubility, prompting research into formulation strategies to enhance its absorption and systemic distribution. Approaches such as nanoparticle delivery, liposomal encapsulation, and co-administration with bioenhancers have been explored to improve its pharmacokinetic profile and therapeutic efficacy.

Beyond medical applications, aloe-emodin has been utilized in cosmetic and topical preparations for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Its inclusion in creams and ointments leverages its ability to reduce skin inflammation and promote healing in conditions such as minor burns, wounds, and dermatitis.

Overall, aloe-emodin is a bioactive anthraquinone with diverse pharmacological properties, including laxative, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer activities. Its traditional use in herbal medicine, combined with modern research into its mechanisms and applications, underscores its potential as a therapeutic compound. Continued studies on its bioavailability, formulation, and clinical applications will further define its role in health and disease management.

References

2025. Aloe-emodin inhibits cell proliferation by inducing AMPK-mediated mitochondrial autophagy in the human hepatocellular carcinoma cell line Hep3B. Molecular & Cellular Toxicology.
DOI: 10.1007/s13273-025-00553-y

2025. Development and Optimization of Doxycycline Hyclate and Aloe-Emodin NLC�s Loaded Gel for Diabetic Wound Healing. Journal of Cluster Science.
DOI: 10.1007/s10876-025-02839-6

2025. Aloe-Emodin activated by Photodynamic therapy and diode laser on carious affected dentin and survival of S. mutans. An-invitro SEM assessment. Photodiagnosis and Photodynamic Therapy.
DOI: 10.1016/j.pdpdt.2025.104611