Botanical Essence offers high-purity Pure L-Epicatechin Powder, a premium bioactive polyphenol extracted from the tender leaves of Camellia sinensis. As one of the most potent catechins found in green tea, L-Epicatechin is widely recognized in the nutraceutical, pharmaceutical, and functional food industries for its exceptional antioxidant capacity and broad-spectrum health-supporting properties.
What Is L-Epicatechin?
L-Epicatechin (CAS No. 490-46-0) is a naturally occurring flavan-3-ol with the molecular formula C₁₅H₁₄O₆ and a molecular weight of 290.27. It is primarily sourced from high-quality tea leaves grown in renowned tea-producing regions of China. Through advanced solvent extraction and multiple purification steps, Botanical Essence delivers consistently pure L-Epicatechin at a minimum assay of 98% (HPLC), ensuring excellent batch-to-batch consistency and traceability from farm to finished powder.
Key Physicochemical Properties
- Appearance: White to off-white fine powder
- Odor and Taste: Characteristic, mild
- Particle Size: 100% through 80 mesh
- Solubility: Soluble in ethanol, DMSO, and slightly soluble in water
- Stability: Stable under proper storage conditions; sensitive to strong light and alkaline environments
Its unique molecular structure, featuring multiple phenolic hydroxyl groups (particularly the ortho-dihydroxyl groups in the B-ring), enables superior free radical scavenging activity, making it significantly more effective than many conventional antioxidants.
Primary Functions and Benefits
Pure L-Epicatechin Powder exhibits multiple scientifically recognized biological activities:
- Supports healthy blood pressure, blood glucose, and lipid metabolism
- Powerful antioxidant that neutralizes free radicals and helps combat oxidative stress
- Promotes healthy aging by protecting cells from lipid peroxidation
- Enhances immune response and supports respiratory health
- Demonstrates anti-radiation and cellular protective properties
- Contributes to neuroprotection by helping modulate glutamate-related pathways
- Exhibits antibacterial and deodorizing effects
The antioxidant mechanism is primarily attributed to its ability to donate hydrogen atoms from the A and B rings, effectively terminating radical chain reactions and converting reactive oxygen species into stable, non-toxic compounds.
Industry Applications
Pharmaceutical & Nutraceutical
Widely used as a functional ingredient in cardiovascular support formulas, blood sugar management supplements, and anti-aging products. It is also researched for its potential role in metabolic health and neuroprotection.
Functional Food & Beverage
Serves as a natural antioxidant, preservative, and flavor stabilizer. It can be incorporated into health beverages, functional confectionery, and dietary supplements to extend shelf life while adding bioactive value.
Cosmetics & Personal Care
Valued for its skin-soothing and anti-aging properties. It is commonly formulated into premium skincare products, serums, and creams aimed at protecting against environmental oxidative damage and supporting skin elasticity.
Flavor & Fragrance Industry
Utilized for its natural antibacterial and deodorizing characteristics in oral care and hygiene products.
Quality Specifications
| Item | Specification | Result | Test Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Fine Powder | Complies | Visual |
| Color | White to off-white | Complies | Visual |
| Odor | Characteristic | Complies | Organoleptic |
| Taste | Characteristic | Complies | Organoleptic |
| Particle Size | 100% pass 80 mesh | Complies | CP2015 |
| Loss on Drying | ≤5.0% | 2.26% | CP2015 |
| Ash Content | ≤8.0% | 2.35% | CP2015 |
| Bulk Density | 40–60 g/100mL | 49 g/100mL | CP2015 |
| Assay (Epicatechin) | ≥98.0% | 98.21% | HPLC |
| Heavy Metals | ≤10 ppm | Complies | CP2015 |
| Lead (Pb) | ≤2 ppm | Complies | GB/T 5009.12 |
| Arsenic (As) | ≤2 ppm | Complies | GB/T 5009.11 |
| Total Plate Count | ≤1,000 cfu/g | Complies | GB/T 4789.2 |
| Yeast & Mold | ≤100 cfu/g | Complies | GB/T 4789.15 |
| E. coli / Salmonella / S. aureus | Negative | Negative | GB/T 4789 series |
All testing is performed using validated methods with traceable reference standards. Our production follows strict cGMP guidelines with full traceability throughout the supply chain.
Stability Data
Long-term stability studies conducted on L-Epicatechin (Lot PB20180320) stored under standard conditions (cool, dry, away from direct light) in 25 kg fiber drums demonstrate excellent stability:
- After 36 months: Loss on Drying 3.6%, Assay remains ≥98.30%
This exceptional stability ensures formulators and manufacturers can rely on consistent potency throughout the product’s shelf life.
Why Choose Botanical Essence as Your L-Epicatechin Supplier?
As a vertically integrated manufacturer and global supplier of botanical extracts and dietary supplement ingredients, Botanical Essence is trusted by leading brands and research institutions worldwide. Our clients include multinational corporations in the pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, and cosmetic sectors who demand uncompromising quality, regulatory compliance, and reliable supply.
We provide:
- Consistent 98%+ purity with detailed Certificates of Analysis
- Comprehensive third-party testing and documentation
- Professional technical support for formulation development
- Flexible packaging and customization options
- Reliable delivery and experienced international logistics support
Whether you are a dietary supplement brand owner, pharmaceutical developer, cosmetic formulator, or bulk ingredient distributor, Pure L-Epicatechin Powder from Botanical Essence delivers the quality, purity, and performance your products deserve.
Contact us today at [email protected] to request specifications, samples, or discuss your specific volume requirements. Our technical and commercial teams are ready to support your sourcing needs with transparency and professionalism.
