We supply Birch Bark Extract standardized to 90% and 98% betulin content, verified via HPLC testing. This natural botanical ingredient is formulated for use in topical and oral wellness product applications, including skin-soothing cosmetic products, triterpene-focused dietary supplement formulations, and traditional herbal tea blends intended to support healthy fluid balance.

Basic Information

Product Description

Birch Bark Extract is derived from the bark of Betula platyphylla Sukaczev. This species belongs to the genus Betula in the family Betulaceae. It is commonly called Asian white birch. The bark is naturally rich in triterpenes. Betulin is the dominant compound in this fraction.

One important distinction: birch bark extract is not chaga. Chaga, also called birch fungus, is Inonotus obliquus. It is a fungus that grows on birch trunks. Chaga is not a birch plant extract. Our product comes from birch bark only. European users also know the close relative Betula pendula. Its leaves are a traditional herbal tea material.

We process the bark with food-grade ethanol and water. The extract is then standardized to a defined betulin content. Two grades are offered: 90% and 98% betulin by HPLC. A birch leaf extract in a 10:1 ratio is also available on request. Each batch ships with a full certificate of analysis.

Active Constituents

Birch bark triterpenes are the best-known fraction of this extract. Betulin makes up the largest share. Minor triterpenes occur in smaller amounts. Polyphenols and flavonoids are also present.

Total polyphenols and total flavonoids are reported for each batch. Both are measured by UV-based reference methods. These indicators support batch-to-batch consistency.

Certificate of Analysis (COA) – Typical Results

Mechanism of Action

The mechanisms below are drawn from laboratory research and traditional use. Most data are preclinical. Human clinical evidence is limited.

Triterpene Anti-Inflammatory Pathways

Birch triterpenes such as betulin have been studied for inflammation. Laboratory studies suggest effects on NF-κB and COX-2 signaling. These pathways are linked to inflammatory mediators. Most evidence comes from cell and animal models.

Skin and Wound Care Background

A birch bark triterpene gel was approved in the EU in 2023. It is used for wounds in epidermolysis bullosa patients. This shows a medicinal precedent for bark triterpenes. Note that this gel is a specific finished medicine. It is not our raw material. Cosmetic formulators still value soothing skin-feel positioning within local rules.

Traditional Diuretic Action

Birch leaf teas have long been used as mild diuretics. The traditional goal is increased urine output. This supports everyday fluid elimination habits. Modern evidence for defined health outcomes is limited.

Antioxidant Activity

Bark polyphenols contribute to free-radical scavenging. In vitro antioxidant tests show measurable activity. These test-tube results do not guarantee effects in the human body.

Cellular Research Notes

Bark extract, betulin, and betulinic acid were tested on cancer cell lines. One study compared cytotoxic effects in gastric and pancreatic cells. These are in vitro laboratory findings only. They support no disease claim for this ingredient.

Traditional and Modern Use

Traditional Use in China

White birch bark circulates as folk and local medicinal material. Traditional sources describe heat-clearing and detoxifying uses. Cough relief and promoted urination are also cited. Drinking birch sap is a regional custom. This tradition spans Northeast China and Japan. Important: Betula platyphylla is not listed in the Chinese Pharmacopoeia.

European Herbal Tradition

In Europe, birch leaf tea is a recognized traditional herbal product. Leaves of the close relative Betula pendula are commonly used. EU herbal references describe traditional diuretic use of birch leaf. Our bark extract follows a different marker profile.

Modern Applications

Cosmetic brands explore birch triterpenes in soothing formulations. Supplement developers work with betulin-standardized powders. Tea blenders use birch leaf material for traditional blends. Research customers order high-purity betulin grades.

Regulatory Status

Recommended Usage

No official daily intake for betulin has been established. Use levels depend on the finished-product format and local rules. Supplement formulators set levels based on the betulin grade. Cosmetic use levels are decided by the safety assessor. For general reference only. Please consult a qualified regulatory expert before product launch.

Precautions

General Precautions

Pregnant and nursing users should avoid this ingredient. Safety data in these groups are insufficient. Keep all products away from children. Birch pollen allergy may cross-react with bark extracts. People with birch allergy should avoid use. Diuretic use calls for adequate fluid intake.

Drug Interactions

Diuretic effects may add to prescription diuretics. Lithium clearance can be affected by changed fluid balance. Blood pressure medicines may interact with fluid shifts. Users on these medicines should consult a qualified professional first.

Contraindications

Do not self-use for edema caused by heart or kidney disease. Do not use as a substitute for urinary tract infection treatment. UTI symptoms require proper medical care.

When to Discontinue

Stop use if rash, itching, or stomach upset appears. Consult a professional before scheduled surgery. Seek medical advice if symptoms persist during use.

Why Choose Nutralighting

References

[1] PubChem Compound Summary: Betulin (CAS 473-98-3). National Library of Medicine.

[2] Murrell DF, et al. Long-term safety and efficacy of Oleogel-S10 (birch bark extract) in epidermolysis bullosa: 24-month results from the phase III EASE study. British Journal of Dermatology. 2025;192(6).

[3] Drag M, et al. Comparison of the cytotoxic effects of birch bark extract, betulin and betulinic acid towards human gastric carcinoma and pancreatic carcinoma cell lines. Molecules. 2012;17(6):6403-6414.

[4] European Medicines Agency. Filsuvez (birch bark extract) approval information, 2023.

[5] Nutralighting internal supplier specifications and certificates of analysis for betulin grades.