Puerarin Introduction

Puerarin is a kind of isoflavone monomer in Pueraria flavone. It accounts for about 50% of the total amount of Pueraria isoflavones. It is found in the dried root of Pueraria lobata, and its content is about 2.3%. It is a white crystalline powder and is slightly soluble in water, methanol, hot ethanol, and ethyl acetate. Puerarin will not cause glucoside hydrolysis in an alkaline solution.

Puerarin, being the most abundant component in Gegen, has been identified as performing a variety of functions, including antihypertension, antiarrhythmic, antioxidant, antiischemic, antiapoptotic, antidiabetic, and neuroprotective properties. Gegen has been used for the treatment of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes.

Puerarin Functions

• Whitening

Puerarin can effectively inhibit the catalytic activity of tyrosinase. It interrupts the oxidation process of melanin and inhibits the occurrence and formation of melanin. Moreover, Puerarin has a certain ability of ultraviolet absorption, so it can prevent pigment deposition including chloasma and sunburn. Thereby, Puerarin exerts its whitening and freckle effect.

• Anti-oxidation

Structurally, Puerarin contains two phenolic hydroxyl groups. It is an isoflavone compound. This is the structural basis on which Puerarin has the activity of scavenging oxygen free radicals. Puerarin can significantly inhibit RBC hemolysis caused by oxidative damage; also, it inhibits peroxidation caused by reactive oxygen species. Additionally, Puerarin improves SOD activity in vivo; and it regulates the balance between oxygen free radical and free radical scavengers in the body. An experimental study has also shown that Puerarin can clear superoxide anion and ·OH. It exhibits certain antioxidant and anti-aging effects.

-       Stimulate Hair Growth and Increase Skin Moisturizing Capacity.

Puerarin is easy to be absorbed by the skin. It can not only synergize with other nutrients but also stimulate hair growth. It can regulate the skin, and increase moisturizing capacity.

-       Stimulate Blood Circulation

Puerarin can dilate blood vessels, stimulate blood circulation, and improve microcirculation.

-       Breast Enhancement

Puerarin strengthens the accumulation of breast fat, to make the breast plump again. Therefore, it can be used in breast enhancement products.

Puerarin Application & Dosage

As a natural skin whitening ingredient, Puerarin is widely used in whitening cosmetics such as toner, essence, emulsion, facial mask, sunscreen, and skincare gel. It can also be added to shampoo to promote hair growth.

Application Product	Recommended Dosage
Whitening cosmetics	0.1-0.2%
Breast enhancement paste or cream	0.1-1.0%
Shampoo, conditioner	2%