Lithospermum Extract 98% Alkannin Powder
What is Lithospermum Extract Alkannin?
Shikonin (also known as shikonin, shikonin, or shikonin) is a natural naphthoquinone compound primarily found in the roots of Lithospermum officinale and Viola yedoensis. Its physical and chemical properties indicate that it is insoluble in water but soluble in ethanol, organic solvents, and plant oils. It has good solubility in alkaline solutions and readily precipitates in acid.
Shikonin exhibits multiple biological activities, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and wound healing properties. Its antioxidant capacity helps scavenge free radicals and mitigate oxidative stress damage. Its anti-inflammatory mechanism involves regulating inflammatory signaling pathways, inhibiting excessive inflammatory responses. Shikonin also promotes tissue repair and accelerates wound healing, offering potential applications in skin care and wound treatment.
What are the benefits?
Shikonin, the main active ingredient in the traditional medicinal plant Lithospermum officinale, possesses a wide range of pharmacological activities, including the following:
Hypoglycemic Effects
Lithospermum officinale leaf extract and its shikonin polysaccharides (A, B, and C) exhibit significant hypoglycemic effects, and animal studies have confirmed their effectiveness in improving abnormal glucose metabolism.
Antimicrobial and Antiviral Activity
Experimental studies have demonstrated:
- ● Significant inhibitory effects against Staphylococcus aureus
- ● Effective inhibition of the Jingke 68-1 virus in vitro
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● L-shikonin exhibits anti-influenza virus activity and direct anti-parainfluenza virus activity within a low-toxic concentration range.
Effects on the Hematological System
After intraperitoneal injection, shikonin pigment components (shikonin and acetylshikonin):
- ● Do not affect normal blood clotting time
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● Agonize the anticoagulant effect of heparin
Endocrine Modulatory Effects
Animal studies have shown that shikonin significantly inhibits the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis in adolescent female rats, significantly reducing serum levels of related hormones.
Antioxidant Effects
Shikonin has significant free radical scavenging properties:
- ● It has a strong scavenging effect on superoxide radicals (O₂-) and DPPH radicals.
- ● It can effectively inhibit the β-carotene/linoleic acid autooxidation system.
- ● Its antioxidant activity is primarily related to the structure of the naphthoquinone pigments it contains.
Application direction
Cosmetic Applications
Shikonin, thanks to its antioxidant, anti-wrinkle, and anti-inflammatory properties, is widely used in beauty products such as skincare, facial masks, sunscreens, and lotions, effectively improving skin condition.
Food Applications
As a natural pigment, shikonin is commonly used to color foods such as desserts, jams, beverages, and pastries, enhancing their visual appeal while increasing their nutritional value.
Agricultural Applications
Shikonin can enhance plant resistance, helping crops withstand adverse conditions such as drought, salinity, and low temperatures. It promotes plant growth and development, increases yield and quality, and improves soil adaptability.
