Other names for this ingredient

None

Synopsis of Povidone

History

Povidone, also known as polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), has a rich history of medicinal use dating back to the mid-20th century. First synthesized in the 1930s, povidone quickly found applications in the pharmaceutical industry due to its excellent solubility, safety, and versatility. One of its most significant contributions was as a binder in tablet formulations, helping to ensure uniformity and stability of medicines. Povidone also became renowned as a plasma volume expander during World War II, aiding in emergency treatments when blood products were scarce.

In topical formulations, povidone's role expanded significantly with the introduction of povidone-iodine, a potent antiseptic. This combination has been widely used for wound cleaning, skin disinfection before surgeries, and treatment of minor cuts and burns, demonstrating remarkable efficacy against a broad spectrum of pathogens. Its gentle, non-irritating nature made it an invaluable remedy in both clinical and home settings.

Within the realm of herbal combinations and nutritional products, povidone acts as a stabilizer and dispersing agent, enhancing the solubility and bioavailability of herbal extracts. By preventing clumping and ensuring even distribution, it helps deliver consistent therapeutic benefits in products containing botanicals such as turmeric, echinacea, or ginseng. Its inert and non-reactive qualities make it an ideal partner in herbal preparations, supporting the absorption and potency of natural remedies. Overall, povidone’s historical and contemporary contributions have greatly advanced both mainstream and herbal medicine, fostering improved health and wellness outcomes globally.

Traditional and scientific validation

Povidone, also known as polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), is a synthetic polymer that has been utilized in a variety of pharmaceutical and nutritional products for decades. Historically, povidone was first synthesized in the 1930s and gained widespread use in the pharmaceutical industry due to its excellent solubility, safety profile, and versatility. It acts primarily as a binder, stabilizer, and dispersing agent in tablets, capsules, and liquid formulations, enhancing product consistency and bioavailability.

Scientifically, povidone is considered pharmacologically inert, meaning it does not react with the body or alter biological processes directly. Its primary contribution is in improving the manufacturing and delivery of active ingredients. Several studies have shown that povidone can enhance the solubility and dissolution rate of poorly soluble nutrients and drugs, potentially increasing their absorption and effectiveness. Additionally, its use as a stabilizer helps maintain the integrity and shelf-life of vitamins and other sensitive compounds.

Although povidone has an established safety record and is approved by regulatory agencies such as the FDA and EFSA for use in food and pharmaceuticals, comprehensive clinical trials specifically evaluating its direct benefits in nutritional products are limited. Current evidence supports its utility as a functional excipient rather than an active nutrient. More research may be warranted to fully elucidate any additional physiological effects. Nonetheless, povidone’s proven safety, stability, and functional properties make it a valuable contributor to the quality and effectiveness of modern nutritional products.

Povidone is used for these health conditions

Abrasions (Scientific)
Burns and Scalds (Scientific)
Cuts (Scientific)
Scratches and Abrasions (Scientific)
Ulcerations (external) (Scientific)
Wounds and Sores (Scientific)

This ingredient is used to support these body systems

None

Products containing Povidone

We currently have no products on Caring Sunshine that contain this ingredient.