Inositol

Inositol (chemically cyclohexanehexol) is a hexahydric alcohol that occurs relatively frequently in nature and can occur in a total of nine different stereoisomers. It is an isomer of glucose. By far the most common form is myo-inositol. It occurs primarily in animal tissue and in many plants. Myo-inositol is obtained by hydrolysis of phytic acid, which in turn can be isolated from corn steep liquor.

What exactly is inositol?

Because of its sweet taste, which is about half as intense as that of table sugar, inositol was once also known as “muscle sugar”. This term suggests that it is a carbohydrate, which is not the case according to today’s definition. It shares the same molecular formula as the two carbohydrates fructose and glucose, but the substance does not have the characteristic carbonyl group, which consists of a carbon atom and a double-bonded oxygen atom, so that it cannot officially be counted as a carbohydrate.

In the past, inositol was classified as a vitamin (vitamin B8), but this classification has since been withdrawn. It does have general similarities with the B vitamins and choline, which was also previously classified in this group, but it is formed by the body itself as a breakdown product of glucose. Inositol is therefore not essential and does not correspond to the exact definition of a vitamin.

The functions of inositol

This valuable substance plays a very important role as a secondary messenger in the transmission of signals within cells. The corresponding signalling pathway begins at the phospholipids (complex lipids that have an ester bond with phosphoric acid) of the cell membrane and can have many different effects in the body. Myo-inositol regulates the function of nerves, the brain and muscles. It also ensures that the liver functions properly by contributing to the smooth transport of fatty acids into the liver, thereby supporting fat burning.

The lens of the eye and the heart muscle are particularly rich in myo-inositol, which means that the substance is also very important for healthy heart function and normal vision. It also strengthens the contraction of the gastrointestinal tract, thus creating optimal conditions for good digestion and adequate processing of food. This helps to prevent flatulence, abdominal pain and constipation.

Inositol has also been researched for its therapeutic effect on various mental illnesses. In the past, it has been used successfully to treat depression, panic attacks and Alzheimer’s disease, as well as obsessive-compulsive disorders and neuroses. Interestingly, the inositol levels of depressed people are almost always significantly lower than those of healthy people, but the results of studies and research are not yet entirely clear in terms of effectiveness.

In other words, the evidence for a positive effect on depression is not yet sufficient.

However, according to studies, inositol has so far shown hardly any side effects. Taking inositol has been shown not to cause changes in kidney, liver or blood function.

Where can we get inositol naturally?

A high intake of sugar, coffee and alcohol inhibits the body’s own production. In contrast, fruit and vegetables contain large amounts of the substance. In particular, oranges, grapefruits, almonds, cantaloupes and red beans are worth mentioning here.

According to studies, the body needs between 500 and 1200 milligrams of inositol.

A sufficient supply has a generally positive effect on the growth and health of hair and thus also prevents hair loss.

What can inositol do in cosmetic products?

The cosmetics industry has also discovered the excellent properties of inositol and is offering more and more care products with the valuable substance that counteract wrinkling and effectively smooth the skin. As an effective and very well tolerated cosmetic active ingredient, cyclohexanehexol not only moisturises but also smoothes the skin and has an antistatic effect. The substance thus helps to improve the skin’s moisture balance and is therefore a highly recommended and completely natural ingredient for a wide range of skin and hair care products.

Whether in body lotions, shampoos or anti-aging products, inositol is now found in an increasing number of personal care products. However, this is not always recognisable to the consumer, as the substance is not usually explicitly advertised. It is also not always referred to as inositol on the list of ingredients, with terms such as cyclohexanehexol or myo-inositol also being common.

Obtaining inositol from rice

One important milestone in cosmetics research was the discovery of the plant-based inositol in green rice. This substance is now frequently used in cosmetic products to stimulate cell respiration. Water from rice grains is now considered a completely natural anti-aging care product, because inositol not only promotes cell renewal but also blood circulation.

Using rice water as a facial tonic is a particularly gentle way to cleanse and care for delicate facial skin. The pores in the skin become significantly finer, the skin appears revitalised and even small wrinkles can be gently but effectively reduced.

Ideal application

Inositol is also popular for use in moisturising face masks. This is where the substance can develop its positive properties particularly well. It is also increasingly used in rich serums for skin that is lacking in moisture.

An interesting example from the field of hair care: the trademark of the women of the Miao tribe (an ethnic minority in southern China) is particularly long and healthy hair. Hair lengths of up to two metres are considered perfectly normal here. As can be read in the Guinness Book of Records, the inhabitants of the small village of Huangluo are even demonstrably the longest-haired. The reason: the women use fermented rice water as a shampoo and conditioner.

Inositol is also available as a dietary supplement in the form of powder, tablets or capsules. Possible areas of application include improving hair growth and treating eating disorders such as bulimia.

Inositol profile

Molecular formula: C6H12O6

CAS number: 87-89-8

Description: white, crystalline, odourless solid with a sweetish taste

Melting point: 223 to 225 °C

Masks with inositol from Cosmacon

The moisturising effect of the masks makes the skin soft and supple. Tension is reduced and the skin appears fresher, more radiant, more vibrant and healthier. Inositol is a valuable and natural ingredient in such masks, which is considered completely harmless and yet extremely effective. Cosmacon helps to develop such effective and high-quality masks. Thanks to our know-how and experience, we are able to plan and implement individual formulations.

Literature:

Genome of Phyllanthus emblica: the medicinal plant Amla with super antioxidant properties.

Mahajan S, Bisht MS, Chakraborty A, Sharma VK.Front Plant Sci. 2023 Sep 1;14:1210078.

The Cyclic Polyol Myo-Inosit as Water Organizer; L. Rigano, N. Lionetti, K. Jutila; SOFW 11-2007