Betulin

Other names: Lup-20(29)-ene-3,28-diol

Harm score: 2 (Derivatives of natural substances)

Betulin is a substance found in birch, where it makes up to 30% of the dry matter of the bark. It is also known as Lup-20(29)-ene-3,28-diol and is a white solid that is practically insoluble in water. This chemical compound belongs to the triterpenes, specifically the lupane group. Betulin and its derivatives have long been used in folk medicine due to their proven anti-inflammatory and cytotoxic effects. In recent years, it has also attracted considerable interest within the pharmaceutical industry due to its antiviral, antimalarial, hepatoprotective and anticarcinogenic properties.

Betulin is of course not only used in medicine. It is also becoming an important raw material in the cosmetic industry, as it has proven moisturizing and regenerative effects. It can be found in various creams, balms and soaps. It is also used in the food industry - it is one of the main ingredients in some food supplements. Betulin can also be used as a repellent, i.e. a substance that repels pests. In the chemical industry, this substance is used as a precursor for the synthesis of other chemical compounds. It is also the subject of research in the field of biotechnology, for example, its possible use in the production of biodegradable polymeric materials is being studied.