Diosgenin is a steroidal triterpene naturally present in several plant species, including wild yam (Dioscorea spp.). A precursor molecule in the synthesis of hormonal steroids (progesterone, cortisone, etc.), it is widely used in the nutraceutical, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic sectors for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and hormone-like properties. Diosgenin dosage is essential to ensure the quality, compliance, and efficacy of standardized plant extracts, medicinal plant capsules, or enriched dermocosmetic formulations.
Why measure diosgenin?
The dosage of diosgenin allows:
- To standardize extracts of Dioscorea and other plant sources
- To validate the concentration of active ingredients in food supplements
- To control the authenticity and purity of raw materials
- To ensure compliance with technical or regulatory specifications
- To support functional claims related to hormonal balance or female well-being
This analysis is also used in R&D, for the development of new phytosterol-based products or in bioavailability studies.
Available analytical methods
Since diosgenin is a lipophilic and low volatility molecule, its dosage is mainly based on the following chromatographic techniques:
- HPLC-DAD : high-performance liquid chromatography with UV detection, suitable for simple or purified matrices (powders, dry extracts, solutions).
- LC-MS/MS : liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry, recommended for complex matrices, capsules or extracts containing other saponins or plant steroids.
Extraction of diosgenin may require prior hydrolysis to release the aglycone molecule from its glycosidic form, depending on the sample type.
Commonly analyzed matrices
- Dry extracts of Dioscorea spp.
- Wild yam food supplements
- Vegetable capsules, tablets or powders
- Cosmetic products for hormonal or anti-aging purposes
- Raw materials from phytotherapy
Industrial applications
Diosgenin testing is an essential tool in:
- Quality control of food supplements
- Securing the composition of plant extracts
- Optimization of the formulation of nutraceutical or cosmetic products
- Standardization of natural functional ingredients
- Stability or release studies of triterpenes in formulations
Why choose YesWeLab for your diosgenin analyses?
At YesWeLab, we provide you with a network of specialized laboratories, selected for their expertise in phytochemical analysis, their ISO 17025 / COFRAC accreditation, and their ability to adapt methods to your specific needs. Whether you are a supplement manufacturer, formulator, or distributor, our digital platform centralizes your requests, facilitates sample submissions, and provides you with tailored scientific support.
You benefit from:
- Reliable and interpretable results
- Choosing the most relevant techniques
- Personalized technical advice
- Rigorous monitoring of your analytical projects
Recommended internal links
To complete the analysis of your plant extracts, also discover:
- Total saponin assay : to quantify other associated triterpenes
- Diosmin dosage : flavonoid also used in circulatory plant extracts
Since 2020, hundreds of manufacturers, formulators, and distributors have trusted YesWeLab to manage their plant-based active ingredient analyses. Contact our team today to discuss your analytical needs or get a personalized quote.
