Introduction
Pine Needle Extract is a standardized botanical ingredient derived from the dried needles of Pinus massoniana Lamb., a conifer species widely distributed across China. With the INCI name Pinus Massoniana Leaf Extract, this ingredient is recognized in the Inventory of Used Cosmetic Ingredients (China, 2021 Edition) and commonly functions as a skin-protective agent.
Pinus massoniana needles are rich in bioactive compounds including flavonoids, polyphenols, proanthocyanidins, vitamin C, and tannins. Over 62 flavonoids have been isolated and identified from Pinus massoniana, including taxifolin, (+)-catechin, and various flavonoid glycosides. The extract also contains rare A-type, spiro-type, and highly oligomeric proanthocyanidins.
Our Pine Needle Extract is produced through water extraction followed by concentration and spray-drying, resulting in a fully water-soluble powder that dissolves clearly with no sediment. We offer both ratio-based specifications (10:1, 20:1, 30:1, 50:1) and content-based specifications (flavonoids, proanthocyanidins) to meet diverse application requirements across dietary supplements, functional foods, and cosmetic formulations.
Technical Information
| Parameter | Specification / Information |
|---|---|
| INCI Name | Pinus Massoniana Leaf Extract |
| CAS No. | 90082-35-8 |
| Botanical Source | Pinus massoniana Lamb. (Pinaceae) – dried needles |
| Cosmetic Function | Skin protective agent |
| Appearance | Yellow-brown to brown fine powder |
| Odor | Characteristic conifer |
| Particle Size | 80–120 mesh |
| Solubility | Fully water-soluble – clear, transparent solution, no sediment |
| Loss on Drying | ≤5.0% (USP) |
| Ash Content | ≤5.0% (USP) |
| pH (1% solution) | 4.5–6.0 |
| Active Components | Flavonoids (≥20% by UV, custom), proanthocyanidins (≥90–95% by UV/HPLC, custom), polyphenols, vitamin C, tannins |
| Phytochemical Highlights | Over 62 flavonoids identified, including taxifolin, (+)-catechin, naringenin-7-O-β-D-glucopyranoside; rare A‑type, spiro‑type, and highly oligomeric proanthocyanidins |
| Solubility in Other Solvents | Soluble in ethanol, glycerin (with stirring), propylene glycol |
| Shelf Life | 24 months from manufacture |
| Storage | Cool, dry, well‑ventilated; protect from light and moisture; 15–25°C, RH <60% |
| Heat Stability | Stable at typical processing temperatures; avoid prolonged heat >80°C |
| Regulatory Status | Permitted as a food and cosmetic ingredient in major markets (USA, EU, Japan, Korea, China) |
Nutritional Profile
Pine needles are a rich source of essential nutrients and bioactive compounds:
Vitamins
| Nutrient | Remark |
|---|---|
| Vitamin C | A cup of pine needle tea contains 3–5 times the vitamin C of an equivalent volume of orange juice |
| Vitamin A, Vitamin E | Fat-soluble antioxidants supporting vision, immunity, and skin health |
| Vitamin B1 (Thiamine), B2 (Riboflavin) | Essential for energy metabolism and nervous system function |
| Vitamin H (Biotin) | Supports metabolism and healthy hair, skin, and nails |
| Vitamin K | Plays a key role in blood clotting and bone metabolism |
| β‑Carotene | A provitamin A carotenoid with potent antioxidant activity |
Minerals
| Mineral | Function / Presence |
|---|---|
| Calcium, Phosphorus, Magnesium | Essential for bone health and muscle function |
| Potassium, Sodium | Maintain fluid balance and support nerve transmission |
| Iron, Copper | Important for red blood cell formation and oxygen transport |
| Manganese, Zinc, Selenium | Trace elements with antioxidant, immune-supportive, and enzymatic functions |
Other Bioactive Compounds
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Flavonoids | Include taxifolin, (+)-catechin, and over 62 identified flavonoid compounds; potent free‑radical scavengers |
| Polyphenols | Diverse phenolic compounds with strong antioxidant and anti‑inflammatory properties |
| Proanthocyanidins | Include rare A‑type, spiro‑type, and highly oligomeric forms; ultra‑potent antioxidants |
| Shikimic Acid | A key organic acid accounting for over 60% of pine needle organic acids, studied for seasonal wellness support |
| Tannins | Offer astringent, anti‑inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties |
| Essential Oils | Provide characteristic conifer aroma; contain terpenes and volatile compounds with biological activities |
| Amino Acids | 18 types of amino acids, including essential amino acids for protein synthesis and metabolic function |
Benefits
Pine needle extract from Pinus massoniana offers a wide range of health benefits, backed by modern scientific research:
- Powerful Antioxidant Protection – Rich in flavonoids, polyphenols, and proanthocyanidins, it neutralizes free radicals and helps protect cells from oxidative stress, which is linked to aging and chronic diseases.
- Cardiovascular Support – The extract helps inhibit LDL (bad) cholesterol oxidation and reduces platelet aggregation. Studies show it can improve blood lipid levels, blood pressure, and glucose metabolism, supporting overall heart health.
- Neuroprotection and Cognitive Support – Research indicates that pine needle extract protects brain cells from damage, improves learning and memory in aging models, and may help reduce brain injury caused by reduced blood flow. It also shows potential in relieving stress‑related memory impairment.
- Anti‑Inflammatory Activity – The bioactive compounds in Pinus massoniana needles possess strong anti‑inflammatory properties, which may help alleviate various inflammatory conditions.
- Bone and Dental Health – Pine needle extract promotes osteoblast differentiation, suggesting a role in maintaining bone density. It also helps reduce tooth root dentin demineralization, potentially offering anti‑cavity benefits.
- Immune System Support – The extract modulates immune responses, enhances the production of immunoglobulins (IgA, IgG, IgM), and activates macrophages, contributing to a stronger innate immunity.
- Skin Health and Anti‑Aging – In cosmetic applications, it serves as a skin protective agent. Fermented pine needle extract has been shown to combat skin aging, making it a valuable ingredient in anti‑aging serums and creams.
- Fully Water‑Soluble – It dissolves completely in water to form a clear solution, making it ideal for beverages, clear liquid formulations, and cosmetic serums.
- Versatile Formulations – Available in multiple ratio (10:1–50:1) and content specifications (Flavonoids ≥20%; Proanthocyanidins ≥90–95%) to suit different product needs.
Specifications & Applications Guide
| Specification | Concentration / Content | Recommended Applications | Key Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10:1 | 10:1 (ratio) | Standard dietary supplements, capsules, tablets, functional beverages | Industry standard; balanced potency and cost; fully water‑soluble |
| 20:1 | 20:1 (ratio) | High‑potency supplements, wellness shots, cosmetic formulations | Higher concentration; reduced dosage volume |
| 30:1 | 30:1 (ratio) | Premium supplements, sports nutrition | High concentration; minimal excipient load |
| 50:1 | 50:1 (ratio) | High‑end nutraceuticals, specialized formulations | Maximum concentration for premium products |
| Total Flavonoids | ≥20% (UV) | Antioxidant supplements, functional beverages, wellness products | Standardized marker; enhanced bioactivity; ideal for clear solutions |
| Proanthocyanidins | ≥90% – 95% (UV/HPLC) | Premium nutraceuticals, high‑potency antioxidant formulas, cosmetics | Ultra‑high purity; potent free‑radical scavenging activity |
| Custom | Customizable (ratio or content) | Tailored formulations for specific applications | Available upon request; flexible specifications |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Are pine needles safe for human consumption?
A: Yes, when sourced from safe species such as Pinus massoniana, Pinus densiflora, and Eastern white pine. Important: Not all pine species are safe-ponderosa and lodgepole pines contain toxic compounds and should be avoided. Yew trees are also toxic. Pregnant women and individuals with a history of gastrointestinal sensitivity should limit intake.
Q: Is pine needle extract good for skin and cosmetics?
A: Yes. Pine needle extract has become increasingly popular in skincare due to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and brightening capabilities. Research has demonstrated:
- Antioxidant protection: Flavonoids and polyphenols protect skin from free radical damage
- Melanin inhibition: Pine needle fermentation extract inhibits melanin synthesis, showing potential for developing whitening cosmetics
- Anti-inflammatory effects: Pinus densiflora needle extracts have potential applications as alternative anti-inflammatory agents or cosmetic materials for skin health improvement
- Anti-aging: Fermented pine needle extract has demonstrated anti-skin-aging effects
Q: How does pine needle extract compare to pine bark extract?
A: While both are derived from pine trees, they differ in source and composition. Pine needle extract is sourced from the needles (leaves) of Pinus species and contains a broader profile of flavonoids, polyphenols, proanthocyanidins, vitamin C, and essential oils. Pine bark extract (typically from Pinus pinaster) is derived from the bark and is renowned for its high concentration of proanthocyanidins. Both exhibit potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and endothelial protective properties. The choice between them depends on the specific application and desired phytochemical profile.
Q: What is the recommended daily intake of pine needle extract?
A: Dosage varies by specification and application. For standard 10:1 ratio extracts, typical dosages range from 100–500 mg per serving. For pine needle tea, it is generally recommended to limit consumption to two cups per day. Individuals with thyroid disorders should consult a healthcare provider before regular use, as pine needles contain trace amounts of iodine. We recommend consulting with a formulation specialist for application-specific guidance.
Q: Can athletes benefit from pine needle extract?
A: Yes. Research suggests that pine needle powder ingestion, especially when combined with exercise training, may be a helpful nutritional regimen for athletes and exercisers. Studies have shown that pine needle ingestion significantly increases the expression of antioxidant enzymes such as Zn-SOD and GPx. Pine needle extract also helps manage oxidative stress and supports recovery.
Q: Are there any anti-aging benefits of pine needle extract?
A: Emerging research suggests that pine needle extract may have significant anti-aging effects. Studies indicate that flavonoids in pine needles are responsible for their potential anti-aging activity. Additionally, pine needle extract has been traditionally used to address "infirmities of age" and exhibits adaptogenic properties that help restore the body's non-specific reactivity.
Q: Does pine needle extract have anti-tumor or anti-cancer potential?
A: Preliminary research indicates potential anti-tumor properties. Studies have shown that total flavonoids extracted from pine needles of Cedrus deodara contribute to anti-tumor activity in vitro. Additionally, pine needle extracts have demonstrated anti-cancer potential through various mechanisms. However, more research is needed to fully understand these effects in humans.
For inquiries, quotations, or sample requests, please contact: sales@huilinbio-tech.com
- Xin P, Liu YQ, Chen SW, Zhu XW. Study on antioxidative activities of Pinus massoniana needles extract. Journal of Zhejiang Forestry Science and Technology. 2009;29:44-46.
- Liu YQ, Chen LH, Zhang ZK, et al. Analysis and antioxidant activity study of different extraction liquid from Pinus massoniana needles. Journal of Light Industry. 2025;40(2):61. doi:10.12187/2025.02.007.
- Chu LL, Yang LC, Lin LZ, et al. Chemical composition, antioxidant activities of polysaccharide from Pine needle (Pinus massoniana) and hypolipidemic effect in high-fat diet-induced mice. Elsevier B.V. 2019.
- He JJ, Chen WD, Wang Y. Improvement effect of Pinus massoniana needle extract on brain neurons in D‑galactose‑induced aging mice. Journal of Gansu Agricultural University. 2025(1):27-34. doi:10.13432/j.cnki.jgsau.2025.01.004.
- Zhang L, Wang LF, Hu PH, et al. Pinus massoniana needle extracts attenuate oxidative stress injury in cerebral ischemia reperfusion rats by regulating JNK3/caspase‑3 signal transduction. Journal of Zhejiang University (Medical Sciences). 2022;51(5):563-572. doi:10.3724/zdxbyxb‑2022‑0326. PMID: 36581582.
- Guo YX, Huang SM, Zhao LH, et al. Pine (Pinus massoniana Lamb.) Needle Extract Supplementation Improves Performance, Egg Quality, Serum Parameters, and the Gut Microbiome in Laying Hens. Frontiers in Veterinary Science. 2022;9:810462. doi:10.3389/fvets.2022.810462.
- Zhao C, Li L, Quan W, Ding G. Pinus massoniana used as food and medicine review: chemistry, biology, safety and functional products. Food Science and Human Wellness. 2025. doi:10.26599/FSHW.2025.9250692.
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