
What Is Hinokitiol? Properties, Uses & Applications
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Hinokitiol is a naturally occurring compound found in several trees belonging to the Cupressaceae family. Also known as β-thujaplicin, it belongs to the tropolone family of compounds and has attracted interest in cosmetic formulations, antimicrobial research, and other scientific applications.
For chemical manufacturers, formulators, and raw material buyers, understanding Hinokitiol’s properties and potential uses is essential when evaluating its suitability for a specific application.
This guide covers its chemical characteristics, reported biological activities, application areas, and key considerations when sourcing Hinokitiol.
What Is Hinokitiol?
Hinokitiol is a bioactive natural compound first isolated from Formosan cypress. It has a distinctive seven-membered tropolone ring structure, which contributes to its chemical behavior and ability to interact with certain metal ions.
It has been investigated for antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and other biological activities. However, many reported effects come from laboratory or preclinical studies, and further research is needed to establish their clinical significance.
| Product name | Hinokitiol |
|---|---|
| Alternative name | β-Thujaplicin |
| CAS number | 499-44-5 |
| Molecular formula | C₁₀H₁₂O₂ |
| Molecular weight | 164.20 g/mol |
| Chemical class | Tropolone derivative |
| Natural source | Selected Cupressaceae plants |
Chemical Properties of Hinokitiol
The chemical properties of Hinokitiol influence its handling, storage, and use in different formulations. Its metal-binding behavior and solubility are particularly relevant to researchers and product developers.
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Commonly described as a crystalline solid |
| Chemical structure | Seven-membered tropolone ring |
| Molecular formula | C₁₀H₁₂O₂ |
| Molecular weight | 164.20 g/mol |
| Solubility | Limited water solubility; formulation conditions matter |
| Metal interaction | Can bind certain metal ions |
| Storage | Follow the product-specific SDS and supplier guidance |
These characteristics are discussed in recent reviews of Hinokitiol chemistry and its potential applications. Its relatively low aqueous solubility can present challenges when developing water-based formulations.
Why does solubility matter?
A chemical ingredient must be compatible with the other components in a formulation. When working with Hinokitiol, formulators should assess the solvent system, concentration, pH, and stability under the intended conditions.
Small-scale compatibility tests can help identify potential formulation issues before production.
What Is Hinokitiol Used For?
Hinokitiol has attracted attention across several fields. Its suitability depends on the intended application, formulation, product grade, and applicable regulations.
1.Cosmetics and Personal Care
Hinokitiol has been discussed in cosmetic and personal care research, including applications related to skin, scalp, and oral care. Formulation compatibility and local regulations should be assessed before selecting it for a finished product.

2.Antimicrobial Research
Laboratory studies have investigated Hinokitiol’s activity against different microorganisms. Researchers are also studying how it interacts with microbial cells and metal-ion processes. These findings do not automatically establish effectiveness in every commercial formulation.
3.Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Research
Hinokitiol is being investigated for several biological activities, including anti-inflammatory and anticancer effects. Much of this work remains preclinical, so it should be described as research potential rather than an established treatment.
4.Agricultural and Postharvest Research
Researchers have explored Hinokitiol in studies involving plant pathogens and postharvest preservation. Further evaluation is needed before translating experimental findings into practical applications.
How Does Hinokitiol Work?
One notable feature of Hinokitiol is its ability to bind certain metal ions. This property has made it useful for studying metal transport and metal balance in biological systems.
Research also suggests that Hinokitiol can affect microbial processes and cellular signaling pathways. The exact effects depend on the organism, experimental conditions, and concentration used.
The following table summarizes several research areas:
| Research Area | Main Focus |
|---|---|
| Antimicrobial activity | Effects on bacteria and other microorganisms |
| Metal-ion interaction | Binding and transport of selected metal ions |
| Anti-inflammatory activity | Effects on inflammation-related pathways |
| Anticancer research | Cellular responses observed in experimental models |
These are research topics, not a list of approved medical uses. Human safety, effective dosage, and clinical benefits require appropriate evidence.
How to Choose a Reliable Hinokitiol Supplier
For B2B buyers, selecting a suitable Hinokitiol supplier involves more than comparing the quoted price. Product identity, quality documentation, and supply arrangements should all be considered.
Use this checklist when evaluating a supplier:
- Product specifications: Confirm the product name, CAS number, purity, and agreed parameters.
- Quality documents: Request a current COA and SDS.
- Sample availability: Evaluate a sample when required for your application.
- Packaging: Confirm suitable packaging and storage conditions.
- Supply arrangements: Check MOQ, stock availability, lead time, and shipping options.
- Communication: Make sure the supplier can answer technical and purchasing questions clearly.
Why Source Hinokitiol from Zhishang Bio?
At Zhishang Bio, we support customers looking for chemical raw materials for research, formulation development, and industrial applications.
When sourcing Hinokitiol, buyers should confirm the required specifications, documentation, packaging, and delivery schedule before placing an order.
Our team can discuss your requirements and help you review the available product information for your intended application.
Looking for Hinokitiol (CAS 499-44-5)? Contact our team with your required specifications and order quantity to request product details and a quotation.
FAQ
Hinokitiol is also known as β-thujaplicin. It is a naturally occurring tropolone derivative found in certain Cupressaceae plants.
Hinokitiol is studied for potential applications in cosmetics, personal care, antimicrobial research, and other biomedical and agricultural research areas. Its suitability depends on the specific application and relevant regulations.
Hinokitiol has limited solubility in water. Formulators should evaluate solvent compatibility, concentration, and stability under their intended conditions.
The CAS number of Hinokitiol is 499-44-5. Buyers should verify the product identity and specification in the supplier’s technical documentation.
Common documents include a Certificate of Analysis (COA), Safety Data Sheet (SDS), and product specification. Additional documents may be needed depending on the intended application and destination.
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