Assay of formononetin and biochanin A

Formononetin and biochanin A are two major isoflavones found in various legumes, including red clover and soybeans. They belong to the family of phytoestrogens, natural compounds whose chemical structure is similar to that of estrogens. These molecules are widely used in the nutraceutical field, particularly in dietary supplements intended for female comfort, particularly to support menopause.

Their dosage is essential to guarantee the quality, efficacy and regulatory compliance of plant extracts and nutraceutical formulations.

Importance of joint dosage

The joint analysis of formononetin and biochanin A provides a precise view of the isoflavone composition of an extract or finished product. These molecules play a key role in the desired biological activity, particularly through their effects modulating estrogen receptors.

Reliable and reproducible dosing is essential for:

• standardize extracts and control their composition
• meet regulatory expectations and current recommendations
• ensure safety of use and avoid overdoses
• enhance the value of products on the market through solid analytical data

Nutraceutical and herbal medicine manufacturers rely on these analyses to secure their formulations and strengthen consumer confidence.

Analytical methods for the determination of isoflavones

The determination of formononetin and biochanin A is based on high-precision chromatographic techniques, suitable for the analysis of phenolic compounds in complex matrices.

High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) is the gold standard for separating and quantifying these isoflavones. It offers excellent resolution and allows for accurate measurement of the concentration of each molecule, even at low levels.

Liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (LC-MS) is a complementary alternative, allowing not only to confirm molecular identity, but also to detect other isoflavones or flavonoids present in samples. This method is particularly recommended in cases where high sensitivity and specificity are required.

Affected matrices

The analysis of formononetin and biochanin A can be carried out on different matrices:

• plant extracts from red clover or soybeans
• plant powders used as nutraceutical raw materials
• finished products such as capsules, tablets or food supplement powders
• complex formulations containing several natural active ingredients

Dosing ensures the conformity of raw materials and verifies the stability of finished products throughout their life cycle.

Industrial applications

The results of this analysis are essential for manufacturers and distributors of dietary supplements. They allow them to demonstrate the standardization and quality of their products, while complying with the regulations in force in different markets.

Quantification of isoflavones is also crucial in research and development studies, to compare the efficacy of different plant sources and optimize formulations.

Additional analyses available

In addition to formononetin and biochanin A, YesWeLab offers the measurement of other isoflavones and flavonoids, allowing for a complete analytical profile. Associated services include:

Genistein (isoflavone) dosage
Daidzein (isoflavone) dosage
Glycitin (isoflavone)
dosage Rutin (flavonoid) dosage
Quercetin (flavonoid) dosage

These additional analyses help to strengthen the traceability, compliance and scientific promotion of plant-based products.

YesWeLab expertise

YesWeLab collaborates with a carefully selected network of partner laboratories, the majority of which are ISO 17025 and COFRAC certified and accredited. Each analysis is entrusted to the most suitable laboratory based on the matrix, analytical method, and specific client constraints.

Our digital platform has simplified the management of manufacturers' analytical needs since 2020. It allows them to centralize requests, track samples, and obtain reliable results as quickly as possible.

YesWeLab's scientific team supports each project, ensuring a high level of precision and responsiveness to meet the needs of manufacturers, distributors and design offices.