Melilotic acid assay

The analysis of melilotic acid is primarily carried out by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC-DAD). This method allows for the precise separation of coumarin compounds present in plant extracts and accurate quantification, even at trace levels.

In some cases, particularly for complex matrices or multicomponent extracts, the LC-MS (liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry) method can be used to enhance the specificity and sensitivity of the assay.

Matrices analyzed

The determination of melilotic acid is applicable to several types of matrices:

• Dry or fluid extracts of sweet clover
• Medicinal plant powders
• Infusions and herbal teas for circulatory benefits
• Vein-active food supplements
• Combined natural formulations (red vine, witch hazel, horse chestnut, etc.)

This dosage is often included in a quality specification or a regulatory control plan related to the safety of food supplements.

Importance of dosage in circulatory formulations

Melilotic acid is one of the natural compounds used to prevent venous circulation disorders, particularly in cases of heavy legs, varicose veins, or chronic venous insufficiency. The dosage of this active ingredient ensures a consistent and controlled concentration in standardized extracts, allowing for an effective formulation that meets both user expectations and regulatory requirements.

Additional analyses are available from YesWeLab

YesWeLab also offers the measurement of several other coumarin and flavonoid molecules frequently associated with melilotic acid in herbal products:

• Coumarin
  → Naturally present in sweet clover, cinnamon or tonka bean, it is often measured to assess potential toxicity or total concentration of coumarin compounds.
• Fraxine
  → Furanocoumarin derived from ash (Fraxinus excelsior), used for its antioxidant and circulatory properties.
• Xanthotoxin
  → Photosensitizing molecule derived from bergamot, celery or parsley, to be monitored for extracts for cosmetic or food use.
• Caffeic acid
  → Antioxidant polyphenol often associated with vein extracts to enhance the protective effect on capillaries.

These analyses can be combined as part of a polyphenolic profile or a multi-active screening, particularly for formulations based on several plants.

YesWeLab, your analytics partner

At YesWeLab, we collaborate with a rigorously selected network of specialized, certified and/or accredited laboratories (ISO 17025, COFRAC, GMP). Our services are tailored to the requirements of professionals in phytotherapy, nutraceuticals, cosmetics and natural health.

Thanks to our digital platform, you can easily submit your samples, track your requests, and receive your results promptly. Since 2020, we have supported numerous manufacturers, brands, and engineering firms in their analytical projects.

Start your analysis today

Are you working on a sweet clover-based formulation? Do you want to validate the quality of a vasoprotective plant extract? Request a personalized quote now via our platform or contact our scientific team for tailored support.