Common Name(s): Betulinol,trochol,5-alpha-betulin
CAS Number: 473-98-3
DESCRIPTION
What It Does: Provides birch bark primary triterpene anti-inflammatory and wound healing activity.
Why It's Used: Birch bark healer โ betulin's extremely high natural concentration in birch bark (up to 30% dry weight) provides anti-inflammatory and wound healing activity in one of nature's most concentrated single phytochemical sources.
How It Works: Very high natural abundance in birch outer bark (lenticels contain concentrated betulin). anti-inflammatory via nf-kb inhibition and cytokine reduction. wound healing via keratinocyte migration promotion. antimicrobial from triterpenoid membrane activity. precursor to betulinic acid via betulinic acid synthase.
Typically Found In: Wound healing products,anti-inflammatory birch formulas
TECHNICAL DETAILS
Primary Category: Active ingredient โ antioxidant
Secondary Functions: Free radical scavenging,anti-aging
Application Areas:
Facial Skincare
Body Care
Hair Care
Beard Care
Color Cosmetics (Makeup)
Dietary/Oral Supplements
Typical Concentration Range: 0.1%โ5%
SOURCING & ETHICS
Vegan Status: Yes โ from birch (betula) outer bark
Halal Status: Yes
Source Notes: Plant-derived extract or synthetic.
SKIN COMPATIBILITY
Irritancy Rating: 1/5 โ very low
Comedogenicity Rating: 0/5 โ non-comedogenic
Sensitivity Concerns: Non-irritating; well-tolerated.
Safe for Sensitive Skin: Yes
SAFETY & COMPATIBILITY
Safety Profile: Excellent safety profile. ewg score: 1.
Works Well With: Vitamin c,vitamin e,ferulic acid,spf,other antioxidants
Avoid Combining With: No significant incompatibilities
SCIENTIFIC NOTE
Betulin's extraordinary abundance in birch bark (up to 30% dry weight โ the highest concentration of any single phytochemical in any common tree bark) reflects birch's specific defense strategy: the white colour of birch bark is betulin crystals in the lenticels. the same compound that provides the iconic white birch trunk appearance provides the antimicrobial protection against bark-penetrating pathogens.
Last Verified: 2026-03-12
Primary Sources: Cosing database,alakurtti et al. betulin review