Ferulic acid
Synopsis of ferulic acid
Ferulic acid is a powerful plant-based antioxidant belonging to the phenolic acid family, naturally found in the cell walls of grains, fruits, vegetables, and seeds—especially in rice bran, oats, wheat, apples, and coffee. It serves both protective and regulatory roles in plants and is increasingly recognized in modern health and cosmetic science for its anti-aging, anti-inflammatory, and skin-protective properties.
Biochemically, ferulic acid is known to:
- Neutralize free radicals, preventing oxidative damage to cells, tissues, and DNA
- Enhance the stability and effectiveness of other antioxidants, particularly vitamins C and E, making it a valuable ingredient in topical serums and anti-aging products
- Reduce markers of inflammation in the skin and body
- Offer photoprotective effects, helping defend against UV-induced skin aging and pigmentation
- Support cardiovascular health by reducing lipid peroxidation and improving vascular function
Ferulic acid is used in two primary ways:
- Topically, in serums and creams designed for skin brightening, anti-aging, and sun damage repair
- Orally, as a nutritional antioxidant, often in combination with other polyphenols and flavonoids for inflammation modulation, cardiovascular support, and cellular health
It is generally considered safe and non-irritating, and is particularly valuable in cosmeceuticals due to its ability to synergize with other antioxidants and improve skin resilience.
Historical Use
While pure ferulic acid wasn’t identified and isolated until the 20th century, the plants rich in ferulic acid have been used for centuries in traditional medicine systems around the world:
- In Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), herbs and foods containing ferulic acid—like rice bran, wheat, turmeric, and Angelica species (such as Ferula assafoetida)—were used for:
-
-
Digestive disorders
-
Inflammatory conditions
-
Blood circulation and pain
-
Skin conditions and wound healing
-
- In Traditional Persian and Unani medicine, preparations containing wheat bran or other plant materials now known to be ferulic-rich were used for tonic and anti-inflammatory purposes.
- Angelica sinensis (dong quai) and Ligusticum chuanxiong, two traditional Chinese herbs used for blood circulation, menstrual health, and pain, owe part of their activity to ferulic acid, which contributes to their antioxidant and antithrombotic effects.
In modern formulations, ferulic acid has become a cornerstone of:
- Brightening and anti-aging skincare serums (often combined with vitamin C and E)
- Nutraceuticals targeting oxidative stress, inflammation, and aging
- Cardiovascular and brain health supplements focused on reducing oxidative damage
Its dual utility—internal as a nutritional antioxidant and external as a cosmeceutical active—makes ferulic acid one of the most versatile and scientifically validated plant-based compounds in modern wellness.
Ferulic acid is used for these health conditions
Age Spots (Scientific)
Alzheimer's Disease (Scientific)
Arthritis (Scientific)
Cancer (natural therapy for) (Scientific)
Cancer (prevention) (Scientific)
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects) (Scientific)
Cardiovascular Disease (Scientific)
Cholesterol (high) (Scientific)
Diabetes (Scientific)
Diabetic Retinopathy (Scientific)
Fatty Liver Disease (Scientific)
Free Radical Damage (Scientific)
Hypertension (Scientific)
Inflammation (Scientific)
Memory and Brain Function (Scientific)
Parkinson's Disease (Scientific)
Psoriasis (Scientific)
Wrinkles (Scientific)
ferulic acid is used to support these body systems
Arteries (Scientific)
Circulatory System (Scientific)
Heart (Scientific)
Hepatic System (Scientific)
Liver (Scientific)
Skin (Scientific)
