Sodium Gualenate (also called Guaiazulene Sodium Sulfonate) is a water-soluble derivative of guaiazulene, a naturally occurring azulene compound extracted from plants such as Guaiacum officinale and chamomile species.
1. Chemical Information
- INCI Name: Guaiazulene Sodium Sulfonate
- Common Name: Sodium Gualenate
- Molecular Formula: C₁₅H₁₇NaO₃S
- Appearance: Dark blue to blue-violet crystalline powder
- Solubility: Easily soluble in water
- Stability: Stable under normal storage conditions; sensitive to strong acids and oxidizing agents
2. Source & Origin
Sodium Gualenate is synthesized from guaiazulene, a compound found in:
- Chamomile essential oil (especially German chamomile)
- Guaiac wood oil from Guaiacum officinale
Guaiazulene itself is known for its distinctive deep blue color and anti-inflammatory properties.
3. Key Properties
Sodium Gualenate is known for:
- Anti-inflammatory
- Soothing and anti-redness
- Anti-allergic support
- Mild antibacterial activity
- Promotes skin repair
Because it is water-soluble (unlike pure guaiazulene), it is easier to formulate into aqueous cosmetic and pharmaceutical products.
4. Mechanism of Action
Sodium Gualenate works mainly by:
- Inhibiting inflammatory mediators
- Reducing redness and swelling
- Calming skin irritation
- Supporting tissue repair
It is often compared to azulene-based soothing ingredients used in dermatology.
5. Main Applications
Skincare Products
- Creams and lotions for sensitive skin
- Anti-acne formulations
- After-sun repair products
- Redness-reducing serums
Pharmaceutical Preparations
- Oral ulcer treatments
- Throat sprays
- Anti-inflammatory topical medications
Medical Cosmetics
- Post-procedure repair products
- Products for dermatitis-prone skin
6. Safety Profile
- Generally considered safe at cosmetic use concentrations
- Low irritation potential
- Suitable for sensitive skin when used appropriately
- Excessive concentrations may cause mild irritation
7. Typical Usage Concentration (Cosmetics)
- 0.01% – 0.1% depending on product type and formulation goals
8. Summary
Sodium Gualenate is a water-soluble, anti-inflammatory, soothing active ingredient derived from guaiazulene. It is widely used in skincare and pharmaceutical formulations to reduce redness, irritation, and inflammation.
If you’d like, I can also provide:
- Comparison with guaiazulene
- Mechanism of anti-inflammatory action
- Market applications and trends
- Stability and formulation considerations
- Regulatory status (US/EU/Asia)