Table of ContentsView AllTable of ContentsPurported UsesSide EffectsPrecautionsDosageInteractionsSources & What To Look For
Table of ContentsView All
View All
Table of Contents
Purported Uses
Side Effects
Precautions
Dosage
Interactions
Sources & What To Look For
Ferulicacid is an organic compound found in anti-aging skin creams and serums. It is also a dietary supplement. Some studies suggest it can neutralizefree radicals, unstable molecules that damage and age cells.
Topical application (on the skin) of ferulic acid aims to protect the skin fromaging, sun damage, and skin cancer. As a supplement, some researchers have cited it as a potential treatment forAlzheimer’s disease,diabetes, and other health conditions.
However, all research on ferulic acid is in its early stages. Assuring its safety and effectiveness for general use will require much more.
This article looks at the purported benefits of ferulic acid, its side effects, and precautions you should consider before taking it. It also covers proper dosages and possible interactions with medications or other supplements.
Verywell / Getty Images
Supplement FactsActive ingredient(s):Ferulic acidAlternate name(s):Ferulate, propanoic acid, coniferic acid, trans-ferulic acidSuggested dose:Not enough data to provide a proper dosage recommendationSafety considerations:Generally considered safe when applied topically; however, there is not enough safety data regarding oral use
Supplement Facts
Active ingredient(s):Ferulic acidAlternate name(s):Ferulate, propanoic acid, coniferic acid, trans-ferulic acidSuggested dose:Not enough data to provide a proper dosage recommendationSafety considerations:Generally considered safe when applied topically; however, there is not enough safety data regarding oral use
Ferulic Acid Skin Care Benefits
Researchers believe that ferulic acid may offer multiple beneficial health effects and can function as an:
In skin care products, its common purposes include:
As a supplement, it may have benefits for some medical conditions.
A healthcare professional, such as a registered dietitian, pharmacist, or healthcare provider, should individualize and vet supplement use. No supplement’s purpose is to treat, cure, or prevent disease.
Forms Aren’t InterchangeableResearchers believe that taking ferulic acid supplements doesn’t affect your skin and that topical use doesn’t result in the same possible effects dietary supplements do. You can’t just use one or the other for the same purposes.
Forms Aren’t Interchangeable
Researchers believe that taking ferulic acid supplements doesn’t affect your skin and that topical use doesn’t result in the same possible effects dietary supplements do. You can’t just use one or the other for the same purposes.
Anti-Aging Benefits
Ferulic acid is best known for its purported anti-aging properties. For example, a small study suggested there were skin health benefits in males who took ferulic acid in capsule form.
Ferulic acid has its own antioxidant properties and can also make other antioxidants more effective. For that reason, those who take it often do so alongside common antioxidants such asvitamin Candvitamin E.
Treat Hyperpigmentation
Ferulic acid can be used to limit wrinkles but also for skin lightening and sun protection, though more study is needed to confirm these benefits.The antioxidant properties can help to treat age spots (it limitsmelanin pigmentation).
Ferulic acid also has been studied as a compound found inFibigia clypeataplant extracts, with possible benefits in treating hyperpigmentation. The research evidence is mixed on its benefits for this purpose.
May Improve Microneedling Treatment
Microneedlingis a cosmetic procedure in which hundreds of tiny needles (0.5 to 1.5 millimeters long) are applied to the skin and enter the collagen layer. It is used to stimulate healing and rejuvenation.
One small study suggests that combining ferulic acid with microneedling may enhance skin elasticity compared to ferulic acid alone. However, further study is needed to confirm the results.
Sun Exposure and Skin Cancer
Studies suggest that the antioxidant activity of ferulic acid protects your skin from the sun’s damaging ultraviolet (UV) rays. This protection againstphotoaging(sun-related damage) may limit risk of other health conditions, includingskin cancerand inflammation-related diseases.
Though research is ongoing, ferulic acid and vitamins C and E, added to sunscreens, may prove beneficial.
Avoiding Sun DamageThe best skin protection is to stay out of the sun and use sunblock when necessary. If you have concerns about your skin or how to best protect it from sun damage, talk to a dermatologist.
Avoiding Sun Damage
The best skin protection is to stay out of the sun and use sunblock when necessary. If you have concerns about your skin or how to best protect it from sun damage, talk to a dermatologist.
16 Best Oils for Healthy Skin
Other Benefits of Ferulic Acid Supplement
As a dietary supplement, studies have investigated ferulic acid for its possible benefits for those who have:
However, current research support for oral supplementation with ferulic acid is limited and most studies' subjects have been animals rather than humans. There is not yet enough evidence to support these ferulic acid uses in human health.
Ferulic Acid Side Effects
Ferulic acid serums and creams are generally safe for most skin types. However, they’re not safe for everyone. For example, if you have sensitive skin, a topical product can cause redness and irritation.
If you take ferulic acid orally (as an ingredient ofdong quai(Angelica sinensis) used intraditional Chinese medicine, for example), you may experience:
Photosensitivity Reaction to Medications
Allergic Reactions
If you’re allergic to bran or oatmeal, you may also have an allergy to ferulic acid serums derived from bran or oats. Ferulic acid is found in these foods.Symptoms are usually mild, typical of allergic reaction, and may include:
Stop using the product right away if you have any of these symptoms.
Before using a ferulic acid serum, test some on a small patch of skin and wait 24 hours to see if a rash or other allergy symptom appears.
Science knows little about the long-term safety of ferulic acid supplements. Because it’s derived from food, most presume ferulic acid is safe. Still, no research has established how much a person needs to take to overdose.
The safety of ferulic acid (and its use in products like dong quai) remains unknown in children and pregnant or nursing people.
Given the lack of research, talk to your healthcare provider before taking it. They may want to monitor you for side effects or drug interactions.
Verywell / Anastasia Tretiak
Dosage: How Much Ferulic Acid Should I Take?
Very little data is available about ferulic acid dosage and no guidelines are in place for ferulic acid supplements. Most are sold as 250-milligram (mg) tablets to be taken once daily with or without food.
As a rule of thumb, never exceed the recommended dose on the product label. There’s no evidence that higher doses lead to better results.
Ferulic acid should never serve as a substitute for the drugs that usually treat chronic medical conditions. If you are considering supplementation, discuss it with your healthcare provider.
Researchers know very little about drug interactions with ferulic acid. Studies have shown that ferulic acid combined with the anticoagulant Plavix (clopidogrel) can increase the absorption of ferulic acid in rats.
Sources of Ferulic Acid and What to Look For
Ferulic acid is found in several plant-based foods. It comes from the cell walls of:
Commercial ferulic acid is generally derived from cereal grains.
Ferulic acid skin care products are available online as well as at many drugstores and higher-end cosmetic counters. Some retailers sell it as luxury skin care products at a hefty price despite the lack of firm evidence that it’s effective.
Food Sources of Ferulic Acid
Some ferulic acid-rich foods include:
Ferulic Acid Supplements
Ferulic acid supplements are available online and in certain drugstores and shops specializing in dietary supplements. Keep in mind that ferulic acid from foods is easier for your body to use than supplements, though.
Ferulic acid may come as its own supplement or in a combination product (like dong quai) that contains several other ingredients. Always read the product label to check for additional ingredients you may be allergic to or don’t need.
How to Choose a SupplementIn the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate supplements the way it regulates prescription drugs. That means some supplement products may not contain what the label says. Whenchoosing a supplement, look for independently tested products and consult a healthcare provider,registered dietitian nutritionist(RD or RDN), or pharmacist.
How to Choose a Supplement
In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate supplements the way it regulates prescription drugs. That means some supplement products may not contain what the label says. Whenchoosing a supplement, look for independently tested products and consult a healthcare provider,registered dietitian nutritionist(RD or RDN), or pharmacist.
Summary
Studies suggest ferulic acid has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. It is often an ingredient in skin care products meant to prevent or reverse signs of aging and to prevent sun damage and skin cancer.
Ferulic acid also is under study as an oral supplement for various conditions, but there’s not enough research-based evidence to support its use in specific conditions.
Discuss health concerns and treatment plans for medical conditions with your healthcare provider. Make sure to review the risks of benefits of supplements in addition to traditional therapies with your healthcare provider.
16 SourcesVerywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.Zduńska K, Dana A, Kolodziejczak A, Rotsztejn H.Antioxidant Properties of Ferulic Acid and Its Possible Application.Skin Pharmacol Physiol.2018;31(6):332-336. doi: 10.1159/000491755.Li H, Yu X, Meng F, Zhao Z, Guan S, Wang L.Ferulic Acid Supplementation Increases Lifespan and Stress Resistance via Insulin/IGF-1 Signaling Pathway inC. elegans.Int J Mol Sci. 2021 Apr 20;22(8):4279. doi: 10.3390/ijms22084279.Antonopoulou I, Sapountzaki E, Rova U, Christakopoulos P.Ferulic Acid From Plant Biomass: A Phytochemical With Promising Antiviral Properties.Front Nutr. 2022 Feb 7;8:777576. doi:10.3389/fnut.2021.777576.Suzuki A, Nomura T, Jokura H, Kitamura N, Fujii A, Hase T.Beneficial effects of oral supplementation with ferulic acid, a plant phenolic compound, on the human skin barrier in healthy men.Int J Vitam Nutr Res. 2023 Feb;93(1):54-60. doi: 10.1024/0300-9831/a000699.Pueknang J, Saewan N.Stability and Anti-Aging of Encapsulated Ferulic Acid in Phosphorylated Rice Starch.Molecules. 2022 May 27;27(11):3463. doi:10.3390/molecules27113463.Zengin G, Mahomoodally MF, Rocchetti G, Lucini L, Sieniawska E, Świątek Ł,et al.Chemical Characterization and Bioactive Properties of Different Extracts fromFibigia clypeata, an Unexplored Plant Food.Foods. 2020 Jun 1;9(6):705. doi: 10.3390/foods9060705.Iriarte C, Awosika O, Rengifo-Pardo M, Ehrlich A.Review of applications of microneedling in dermatology.Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2017;10:289-298. doi:10.2147/CCID.S142450Kamila MZ, Helena R.The effectiveness of ferulic acid and microneedling in reducing signs of photoaging: A split-face comparative study.Dermatol Ther. 2020 Nov;33(6):e14000. doi:10.1111/dth.14000.Shi Y, Chen X, Qiang S, Su J, Li J.Anti-Oxidation and Anti-Inflammatory Potency Evaluation of Ferulic Acid Derivatives Obtained through Virtual Screening.Int J Mol Sci. 2021 Oct 20;22(21):11305. doi: 10.3390/ijms222111305.Bumrungpert A, Lilitchan S, Tuntipopipat S, et al.Ferulic acid supplementation improves lipid profiles, oxidative stress, and inflammatory status in hyperlipidemic subjects: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial.Nutrients. 2018;10(6):713. doi:10.3390/nu10060713Wang ZY, Chen M, Zhu LL, et al.Pharmacokinetic drug interactions with clopidogrel: updated review and risk management in combination therapy.Ther Clin Risk Manag. 2015;11:449-467. doi:10.2147/TCRM.S80437Wang EJ, Wu MY, Lu JH.Ferulic acid in animal models of Alzheimer’s disease: a systematic review of preclinical studies.Cells. 2021;10(10):2653. doi:10.3390/cells10102653Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Care.Dong Quai.Paudel D, Dhungana B, Caffe M, Krishnan P.A Review of Health-Beneficial Properties of Oats.Foods. 2021 Oct 26;10(11):2591. doi: 10.3390/foods10112591.Kumar N, Pruthi V.Potential applications of ferulic acid from natural sources.Biotechnol Rep (Amst). 2014;4:86-93. doi:10.1016/j.btre.2014.09.002National Institutes of Health, U.S. National Library of Medicine: Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed).Dong quai.
16 Sources
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.Zduńska K, Dana A, Kolodziejczak A, Rotsztejn H.Antioxidant Properties of Ferulic Acid and Its Possible Application.Skin Pharmacol Physiol.2018;31(6):332-336. doi: 10.1159/000491755.Li H, Yu X, Meng F, Zhao Z, Guan S, Wang L.Ferulic Acid Supplementation Increases Lifespan and Stress Resistance via Insulin/IGF-1 Signaling Pathway inC. elegans.Int J Mol Sci. 2021 Apr 20;22(8):4279. doi: 10.3390/ijms22084279.Antonopoulou I, Sapountzaki E, Rova U, Christakopoulos P.Ferulic Acid From Plant Biomass: A Phytochemical With Promising Antiviral Properties.Front Nutr. 2022 Feb 7;8:777576. doi:10.3389/fnut.2021.777576.Suzuki A, Nomura T, Jokura H, Kitamura N, Fujii A, Hase T.Beneficial effects of oral supplementation with ferulic acid, a plant phenolic compound, on the human skin barrier in healthy men.Int J Vitam Nutr Res. 2023 Feb;93(1):54-60. doi: 10.1024/0300-9831/a000699.Pueknang J, Saewan N.Stability and Anti-Aging of Encapsulated Ferulic Acid in Phosphorylated Rice Starch.Molecules. 2022 May 27;27(11):3463. doi:10.3390/molecules27113463.Zengin G, Mahomoodally MF, Rocchetti G, Lucini L, Sieniawska E, Świątek Ł,et al.Chemical Characterization and Bioactive Properties of Different Extracts fromFibigia clypeata, an Unexplored Plant Food.Foods. 2020 Jun 1;9(6):705. doi: 10.3390/foods9060705.Iriarte C, Awosika O, Rengifo-Pardo M, Ehrlich A.Review of applications of microneedling in dermatology.Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2017;10:289-298. doi:10.2147/CCID.S142450Kamila MZ, Helena R.The effectiveness of ferulic acid and microneedling in reducing signs of photoaging: A split-face comparative study.Dermatol Ther. 2020 Nov;33(6):e14000. doi:10.1111/dth.14000.Shi Y, Chen X, Qiang S, Su J, Li J.Anti-Oxidation and Anti-Inflammatory Potency Evaluation of Ferulic Acid Derivatives Obtained through Virtual Screening.Int J Mol Sci. 2021 Oct 20;22(21):11305. doi: 10.3390/ijms222111305.Bumrungpert A, Lilitchan S, Tuntipopipat S, et al.Ferulic acid supplementation improves lipid profiles, oxidative stress, and inflammatory status in hyperlipidemic subjects: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial.Nutrients. 2018;10(6):713. doi:10.3390/nu10060713Wang ZY, Chen M, Zhu LL, et al.Pharmacokinetic drug interactions with clopidogrel: updated review and risk management in combination therapy.Ther Clin Risk Manag. 2015;11:449-467. doi:10.2147/TCRM.S80437Wang EJ, Wu MY, Lu JH.Ferulic acid in animal models of Alzheimer’s disease: a systematic review of preclinical studies.Cells. 2021;10(10):2653. doi:10.3390/cells10102653Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Care.Dong Quai.Paudel D, Dhungana B, Caffe M, Krishnan P.A Review of Health-Beneficial Properties of Oats.Foods. 2021 Oct 26;10(11):2591. doi: 10.3390/foods10112591.Kumar N, Pruthi V.Potential applications of ferulic acid from natural sources.Biotechnol Rep (Amst). 2014;4:86-93. doi:10.1016/j.btre.2014.09.002National Institutes of Health, U.S. National Library of Medicine: Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed).Dong quai.
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
Zduńska K, Dana A, Kolodziejczak A, Rotsztejn H.Antioxidant Properties of Ferulic Acid and Its Possible Application.Skin Pharmacol Physiol.2018;31(6):332-336. doi: 10.1159/000491755.Li H, Yu X, Meng F, Zhao Z, Guan S, Wang L.Ferulic Acid Supplementation Increases Lifespan and Stress Resistance via Insulin/IGF-1 Signaling Pathway inC. elegans.Int J Mol Sci. 2021 Apr 20;22(8):4279. doi: 10.3390/ijms22084279.Antonopoulou I, Sapountzaki E, Rova U, Christakopoulos P.Ferulic Acid From Plant Biomass: A Phytochemical With Promising Antiviral Properties.Front Nutr. 2022 Feb 7;8:777576. doi:10.3389/fnut.2021.777576.Suzuki A, Nomura T, Jokura H, Kitamura N, Fujii A, Hase T.Beneficial effects of oral supplementation with ferulic acid, a plant phenolic compound, on the human skin barrier in healthy men.Int J Vitam Nutr Res. 2023 Feb;93(1):54-60. doi: 10.1024/0300-9831/a000699.Pueknang J, Saewan N.Stability and Anti-Aging of Encapsulated Ferulic Acid in Phosphorylated Rice Starch.Molecules. 2022 May 27;27(11):3463. doi:10.3390/molecules27113463.Zengin G, Mahomoodally MF, Rocchetti G, Lucini L, Sieniawska E, Świątek Ł,et al.Chemical Characterization and Bioactive Properties of Different Extracts fromFibigia clypeata, an Unexplored Plant Food.Foods. 2020 Jun 1;9(6):705. doi: 10.3390/foods9060705.Iriarte C, Awosika O, Rengifo-Pardo M, Ehrlich A.Review of applications of microneedling in dermatology.Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2017;10:289-298. doi:10.2147/CCID.S142450Kamila MZ, Helena R.The effectiveness of ferulic acid and microneedling in reducing signs of photoaging: A split-face comparative study.Dermatol Ther. 2020 Nov;33(6):e14000. doi:10.1111/dth.14000.Shi Y, Chen X, Qiang S, Su J, Li J.Anti-Oxidation and Anti-Inflammatory Potency Evaluation of Ferulic Acid Derivatives Obtained through Virtual Screening.Int J Mol Sci. 2021 Oct 20;22(21):11305. doi: 10.3390/ijms222111305.Bumrungpert A, Lilitchan S, Tuntipopipat S, et al.Ferulic acid supplementation improves lipid profiles, oxidative stress, and inflammatory status in hyperlipidemic subjects: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial.Nutrients. 2018;10(6):713. doi:10.3390/nu10060713Wang ZY, Chen M, Zhu LL, et al.Pharmacokinetic drug interactions with clopidogrel: updated review and risk management in combination therapy.Ther Clin Risk Manag. 2015;11:449-467. doi:10.2147/TCRM.S80437Wang EJ, Wu MY, Lu JH.Ferulic acid in animal models of Alzheimer’s disease: a systematic review of preclinical studies.Cells. 2021;10(10):2653. doi:10.3390/cells10102653Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Care.Dong Quai.Paudel D, Dhungana B, Caffe M, Krishnan P.A Review of Health-Beneficial Properties of Oats.Foods. 2021 Oct 26;10(11):2591. doi: 10.3390/foods10112591.Kumar N, Pruthi V.Potential applications of ferulic acid from natural sources.Biotechnol Rep (Amst). 2014;4:86-93. doi:10.1016/j.btre.2014.09.002National Institutes of Health, U.S. National Library of Medicine: Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed).Dong quai.
Zduńska K, Dana A, Kolodziejczak A, Rotsztejn H.Antioxidant Properties of Ferulic Acid and Its Possible Application.Skin Pharmacol Physiol.2018;31(6):332-336. doi: 10.1159/000491755.
Li H, Yu X, Meng F, Zhao Z, Guan S, Wang L.Ferulic Acid Supplementation Increases Lifespan and Stress Resistance via Insulin/IGF-1 Signaling Pathway inC. elegans.Int J Mol Sci. 2021 Apr 20;22(8):4279. doi: 10.3390/ijms22084279.
Antonopoulou I, Sapountzaki E, Rova U, Christakopoulos P.Ferulic Acid From Plant Biomass: A Phytochemical With Promising Antiviral Properties.Front Nutr. 2022 Feb 7;8:777576. doi:10.3389/fnut.2021.777576.
Suzuki A, Nomura T, Jokura H, Kitamura N, Fujii A, Hase T.Beneficial effects of oral supplementation with ferulic acid, a plant phenolic compound, on the human skin barrier in healthy men.Int J Vitam Nutr Res. 2023 Feb;93(1):54-60. doi: 10.1024/0300-9831/a000699.
Pueknang J, Saewan N.Stability and Anti-Aging of Encapsulated Ferulic Acid in Phosphorylated Rice Starch.Molecules. 2022 May 27;27(11):3463. doi:10.3390/molecules27113463.
Zengin G, Mahomoodally MF, Rocchetti G, Lucini L, Sieniawska E, Świątek Ł,et al.Chemical Characterization and Bioactive Properties of Different Extracts fromFibigia clypeata, an Unexplored Plant Food.Foods. 2020 Jun 1;9(6):705. doi: 10.3390/foods9060705.
Iriarte C, Awosika O, Rengifo-Pardo M, Ehrlich A.Review of applications of microneedling in dermatology.Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2017;10:289-298. doi:10.2147/CCID.S142450
Kamila MZ, Helena R.The effectiveness of ferulic acid and microneedling in reducing signs of photoaging: A split-face comparative study.Dermatol Ther. 2020 Nov;33(6):e14000. doi:10.1111/dth.14000.
Shi Y, Chen X, Qiang S, Su J, Li J.Anti-Oxidation and Anti-Inflammatory Potency Evaluation of Ferulic Acid Derivatives Obtained through Virtual Screening.Int J Mol Sci. 2021 Oct 20;22(21):11305. doi: 10.3390/ijms222111305.
Bumrungpert A, Lilitchan S, Tuntipopipat S, et al.Ferulic acid supplementation improves lipid profiles, oxidative stress, and inflammatory status in hyperlipidemic subjects: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial.Nutrients. 2018;10(6):713. doi:10.3390/nu10060713
Wang ZY, Chen M, Zhu LL, et al.Pharmacokinetic drug interactions with clopidogrel: updated review and risk management in combination therapy.Ther Clin Risk Manag. 2015;11:449-467. doi:10.2147/TCRM.S80437
Wang EJ, Wu MY, Lu JH.Ferulic acid in animal models of Alzheimer’s disease: a systematic review of preclinical studies.Cells. 2021;10(10):2653. doi:10.3390/cells10102653
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Care.Dong Quai.
Paudel D, Dhungana B, Caffe M, Krishnan P.A Review of Health-Beneficial Properties of Oats.Foods. 2021 Oct 26;10(11):2591. doi: 10.3390/foods10112591.
Kumar N, Pruthi V.Potential applications of ferulic acid from natural sources.Biotechnol Rep (Amst). 2014;4:86-93. doi:10.1016/j.btre.2014.09.002
National Institutes of Health, U.S. National Library of Medicine: Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed).Dong quai.
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