What Is Pterostilbene?
Pterostilbene (chemical name: trans-3,5-dimethoxy-4-hydroxystilbene) is a naturally occurring stilbenoid polyphenol found predominantly in blueberries, grapes, and certain tree barks such as Pterocarpus marsupium. In its pure form, pterostilbene powder appears as a white to off-white crystalline powder with a high degree of chemical stability. It functions as a phytoalexin within plants — a naturally synthesized defensive compound produced in response to environmental stress, pathogens, and ultraviolet exposure.
As a member of the stilbene family, pterostilbene is structurally analogous to resveratrol but features two methoxy groups in place of hydroxyl groups. This subtle structural difference gives pterostilbene significantly superior bioavailability, enhanced lipophilicity, and greater metabolic stability compared to resveratrol — making it a more effective active ingredient for formulation purposes in both oral supplements and topical applications.
Key Chemical & Physical Properties
| Property | Details |
|---|---|
| IUPAC Name | trans-3,5-dimethoxy-4-hydroxystilbene |
| CAS Number | 537-42-8 |
| Molecular Formula | C₁₆H₁₆O₃ |
| Appearance | White to off-white crystalline powder |
| Particle Size | 100% pass 80 mesh |
| Solubility | Poorly water-soluble; soluble in ethanol, DMSO, and other organic solvents |
| Lipophilicity | High — promotes efficient cellular absorption |
| Stability | Stable under standard storage conditions; light and heat sensitive |
Pterostilbene vs. Resveratrol: Why Pterostilbene Offers a Formulation Advantage
Resveratrol has long been recognized as a leading antioxidant polyphenol in the nutraceutical industry. However, pterostilbene demonstrates several distinct advantages over its well-known counterpart that make it increasingly preferred by formulators and supplement developers:
- Higher Bioavailability: The methoxy substitutions on pterostilbene's structure allow it to pass through cell membranes more efficiently, resulting in significantly improved oral bioavailability compared to resveratrol.
- Greater Lipophilicity: Pterostilbene's enhanced fat-solubility allows it to distribute more readily into lipid-rich tissues, including the brain and skin.
- Longer Half-Life: Pterostilbene is metabolized more slowly in the body, supporting prolonged biological activity.
- Stronger Cellular Penetration: Its structural profile makes it more effective at reaching intracellular targets, increasing functional potency per unit dose.
These properties make pterostilbene powder a premium-grade active ingredient for manufacturers seeking next-generation antioxidant and anti-aging compounds.
Functional Benefits & Research-Supported Properties
Antioxidant Activity
Pterostilbene is widely recognized for its potent free radical scavenging capabilities. Research indicates it can neutralize reactive oxygen species (ROS) at the cellular level, reducing oxidative stress and supporting mitochondrial function. This antioxidant action has direct implications for both anti-aging supplement formulations and functional food products.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Pterostilbene has demonstrated meaningful anti-inflammatory activity in preclinical studies, acting on key inflammatory pathways. This makes it a relevant ingredient for formulations targeting joint health, metabolic wellness, and chronic inflammation management.
Cardiovascular & Metabolic Support
Scientific literature suggests that pterostilbene may support healthy blood pressure levels and contribute to lipid metabolism regulation. These properties position it as a valuable component in heart health, metabolic syndrome, and longevity-oriented supplement lines.
Skin Health & Anti-Aging Applications
Due to its antioxidant potency and anti-inflammatory profile, pterostilbene has been incorporated into a wide range of premium skincare and anti-aging products. Its ability to protect skin cells from oxidative damage and reduce the potential risk factors associated with photo-aging makes it a sought-after cosmetic active ingredient.
Neuroprotective Potential
Emerging research has explored pterostilbene's ability to cross the blood-brain barrier, with preliminary findings suggesting neuroprotective effects and support for cognitive health — an increasingly important attribute in the nootropic and brain health supplement market.
Safety & Handling Information
Pterostilbene powder requires standard precautionary handling. Direct contact with the eyes should be avoided, and appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) is recommended during processing. As with many bioactive polyphenols, pterostilbene is considered an environmental concern — particularly to aquatic organisms — and should be handled and disposed of in accordance with applicable environmental and regulatory guidelines. Formulators and production personnel should refer to the product's Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for complete handling protocols.
Certificate of Analysis (CoA)
All batches of pterostilbene powder supplied by Extract Makers are accompanied by a full Certificate of Analysis. Representative specifications are listed below:
| Test Item | Specification | Typical Result |
|---|---|---|
| Assay (HPLC) | ≥ 99% | 99.20% |
| Physical Appearance | White Powder | Complies |
| Particle Size | 100% Pass 80 Mesh | Complies |
| Loss on Drying | ≤ 0.2% | 0.03% |
| Single Impurity | ≤ 0.1% | 0.03% |
| Total Heavy Metals | ≤ 10 ppm | Complies |
| Lead (Pb) | ≤ 1 ppm | Complies |
| Arsenic (As) | ≤ 1 ppm | Complies |
| Mercury (Hg) | ≤ 1 ppm | Complies |
| Chromium (Cr) | ≤ 1 ppm | Complies |
| Total Plate Count | < 1,000 cfu/g | Complies |
| Yeast & Mold | < 100 cfu/g | Complies |
| E. Coli | Negative | Complies |
| Salmonella | Negative | Complies |
Batch-specific CoA documentation is available upon request for all orders.
Industry Applications
Pterostilbene powder is widely used across multiple industries, including:
- Dietary Supplements & Nutraceuticals: Capsules, tablets, softgels, and powder blends targeting anti-aging, antioxidant, cardiovascular, and cognitive health categories
- Functional Foods & Beverages: Incorporation into health-oriented food products and fortified beverages
- Cosmetics & Skincare: Serums, creams, and anti-aging formulations for topical oxidative stress protection
- Pharmaceutical Research: Active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) research and development in the polyphenol space
- Sports Nutrition: Energy and cellular performance-focused formulations
Quality Standards & Certifications
Extract Makers operates a fully compliant GMP-certified manufacturing facility. Our pterostilbene powder and the full range of plant extract and nutritional raw material products are produced under rigorous quality management systems, supported by the following certifications:
- GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice)
- ISO 9001 — Quality Management Systems
- ISO 22000 — Food Safety Management Systems
- HACCP — Hazard Analysis & Critical Control Points
- Kosher Certified
- Halal Certified
- FDA Facility Registration
Every batch undergoes in-process and final quality control testing, with full traceability from raw material sourcing to finished product release.
Packaging Options
Extract Makers provides flexible packaging configurations to accommodate orders of all sizes:
- 1 kg – 5 kg: Double-sealed aluminum foil bags with inner PE liner
- 10 kg – 20 kg: Corrugated export cartons with moisture-proof inner packaging
- 10 kg – 30 kg: Fiber drums suitable for large-volume commercial orders
Private Label & Custom Packaging
For distributors, brand owners, and contract manufacturers, we offer full private label services. We can customize packaging with your company logo, branding, and label design, enabling direct retail or white-label distribution. This service eliminates the need for secondary packaging operations and significantly reduces your time-to-market.
Shipping & Logistics
Extract Makers supports a full range of international shipping methods to ensure timely and secure delivery:
- Express Courier (< 1 ton): DHL, FedEx, UPS, EMS, and other international express carriers
- Rail Freight: Available for mid-volume shipments to select destinations
- Sea Freight: Cost-effective option for large-volume commercial orders
All shipments are properly documented with commercial invoices, packing lists, certificates of analysis, and any additional compliance documentation required by the destination country.
Free Samples Available
We understand that quality verification is a critical step in the procurement process. Extract Makers offers complimentary samples — typically 10g to 20g — so that customers can evaluate the quality, purity, and physical characteristics of pterostilbene powder before committing to a bulk purchase order. Sample requests for high-value materials are subject to confirmation.
After-Sales Support & Quality Guarantee
Most of our products carry a 2-year shelf life from the date of manufacture. During this period, all products are covered by our quality guarantee. Should any product fail to meet the agreed specifications upon delivery, we operate a straightforward return and refund policy based on the quantity of non-conforming goods returned. Our dedicated after-sales team is available to assist with any quality concerns, documentation needs, or logistical follow-up.
Request a Quote or Sample
Extract Makers is a direct bulk manufacturer of pterostilbene powder, offering competitive wholesale pricing, reliable supply chain consistency, and responsive technical support for B2B customers worldwide. Whether you are a supplement brand, contract manufacturer, cosmetic formulator, or ingredient distributor, we are equipped to meet your sourcing needs at scale.
To request a free sample, product documentation, or a bulk pricing quotation, please contact our team directly:
Email: [email protected]
Extract Makers maintains an extensive catalog of over 2,000 plant extracts, nutritional raw materials, and functional ingredients. If you are sourcing a specific compound not listed on our site, please reach out directly — our product specialists will be glad to assist.
