Isopropylmyristate
Synopsis of Isopropylmyristate
History
Isopropyl myristate is a versatile compound historically valued in medicinal and health-related applications. Originally synthesized in the early 20th century, it is the ester of isopropyl alcohol and myristic acid, a fatty acid naturally occurring in nutmeg, coconut oil, and palm kernel oil. Its introduction into medicinal products was driven by its unique emollient properties – it softens and smooths the skin, making it an excellent ingredient in topical formulations.
Historically, isopropyl myristate has played a crucial role in remedies for various skin conditions. It was commonly used in ointments and creams to treat dry, flaky, or irritated skin due to its ability to penetrate the skin surface efficiently. Its rapid absorption and non-greasy feel made it a preferred carrier for active herbal ingredients, enhancing their delivery and effectiveness. In traditional remedies, isopropyl myristate has been combined with herbal extracts like calendula, chamomile, and aloe vera, boosting the soothing and healing effects of these botanicals.
In the context of herbal combinations, isopropyl myristate enhances the solubility and bioavailability of lipid-soluble herbal compounds, making it easier for the body to utilize the beneficial components of herbs. Its ability to increase skin permeability has allowed herbalists to develop more effective natural balms and lotions for pain relief, inflammation, and wound healing. Overall, isopropyl myristate’s positive contributions to medicinal and herbal practices have supported safer, more effective, and user-friendly remedies, cementing its place as a valuable ingredient in both traditional and modern nutritional products.
Traditional and scientific validation
Isopropyl myristate is an ester derived from isopropyl alcohol and myristic acid, frequently utilized as an emollient, thickening agent, or skin penetration enhancer in cosmetic and pharmaceutical formulations. Its use in nutritional products is less common, but it has been incorporated as a carrier or excipient in certain oral and topical preparations to improve texture or facilitate the delivery of active ingredients.
Historically, isopropyl myristate has been regarded as a safe and effective ingredient in topical applications, with a long record of use dating back to the mid-20th century. Scientific research has primarily focused on its role in enhancing the absorption of other compounds through the skin, making it valuable in transdermal drug delivery systems. For instance, studies have demonstrated that isopropyl myristate can increase the bioavailability of various active agents by altering skin barrier properties, thus supporting its continued use in topical products.
Clinical studies specifically investigating isopropyl myristate in nutritional or oral products remain limited. However, its generally recognized as safe (GRAS) status by regulatory authorities and low toxicity profile provide reassurance regarding its inclusion in such formulations. The ingredient's favorable characteristics—such as low irritancy and good solubilizing properties—support its potential for broader applications in nutrition and health.
While more research is warranted to fully validate its specific effects and long-term safety in nutritional products, current evidence suggests that isopropyl myristate can be a beneficial functional ingredient, especially as a delivery aid or texture enhancer. Ongoing studies and future innovations may help to further clarify and expand its role in the nutritional field.
Isopropylmyristate is used for these health conditions
Lice (Scientific)
Scabies (Scientific)
Skin (dry and/or flaky) (Scientific)
Skin Care (general) (Scientific)
Isopropylmyristate is used to support these body systems
Skin (Scientific)