Ferulic Acid
Pure ferulic acid is a yellowish powder with a chemical structure similar to curcumin. (Curcumin is found in the spice turmeric.) This aromatic compound is based around a benzene ring with a hydroxyl group, a methoxyl group and a carboxyl group branching off from it. These groups can donate electrons to other compounds, which gives them the ability to neutralize free radicals. This makes ferulic acid a powerful antioxidant. Ferulic acid helps prevent damage to cells caused by ultraviolet light, and the presence of ultraviolet light actually strengthens its antioxidant properties.
Ferulic acid is most commonly found in cereals such as brown rice, whole wheat and oats. The highest concentrations are in the bran of these grains, making yet another reason why you should be eating whole grains instead of refined flours. Coffee, amaranth, artichokes, peanuts, oranges, pineapple and apples are also good sources. It is usually found in the cell wall, but also in the seeds and leaves of a plant.
A Japanese study conducted in 2004 showed that ferulic acid was able to alleviate oxidative stress in diabetics, and lower blood glucose levels. This study was done with rats. Because diabetes is a condition that produces a lot of free radicals, the antioxidant properties of ferulic acid might be beneficial for diabetics. More recently, a 2008 study published in Zoological Science showed that ferulic acid supplements can reverse damage done to the organs of diabetic rats.
Ferulic acid has been shown to be effective in treating hot flashes in menopausal women according to a 2003 article in Alternative Medecine Review. A protective effect on bone loss in rats makes it a promising treatment for osteoporosis. Ferulic acid has properties of an immune stimulant and has been shown to suppress many types of cancer including digestive tract cancers, lung, liver, prostate and breast cancers. In rats, ferulic acid is associated with increased HDL, the good cholesterol, and with lower total cholesterol and triglycerides, according to a Korean study published in 2003.
One reason that ferulic acid is such a superior antioxidant is that it outperforms the others available to us in our diet. Ferulic acid is absorbed more easily into the body, and stays in the blood longer than other antioxidants such as vitamin C. It is a popular addition to anti-aging formulas because of its ability to help preserve cell integrity, and its protection from sun damage. The antioxidant properties of ferulic acid also help to reduce damage to nerve cells, and may even help to repair some damage. Because of this researchers are studying it for possible treatment of diseases such as Alzheimer's, cognitive decline and macular degeneration.
Ferulic acid is used in a wide range of cosmetics, such as skin lighteners, sunscreens, anti-aging creams and moisturizers. It may also be listed as cinnamic acid. A handful of countries such as Japan restrict the concentration allowed in a product because some studies have linked ferulic acid exposure with cancer or organ toxicity. It appears that, like many chemicals, it is good for you until you use too much of it. This phytonutrient is a popular sports supplement for its ability to neutralize free radicals in muscle tissue which can cause muscle fatigue, loss of endurance, decreased performance, and muscle soreness. It is also marketed as a remedy for hot flashes, and other health ailments that can be caused by inflammation and oxidation of tissues. Since it is a natural product it doesn't fall under FDA drug regulation in the US, so its difficult to find any data on safety of this product. Therefore, if you are going to use it in supplement form you should educate yourself on side effects and interactions with any other drugs you may be taking. As always, the safest way to get phytonutrients is through natural foods. I have yet to hear about toxic doses of pineapple or whole grains.
The information on this page is not meant to be used in treatment of medical conditions. Please seek the advice of a physician about any medical condition or symptom. Those with medical conditions should consult a medical professional about the appropriateness of taking dietary supplements or diet therapy, and how these methods will interact with their medications.