A simple preparation of betulinic acid from sycamore bark

Abstract

Betulinic acid is a biologically active compound, which has been well-known for anti-cancerous properties especially for skin. Recently, it has been drawn attention as a compound for combating AIDS. It can be chemically derived from betulin or by solvent extraction from bark. However, bark extracts are complex mixtures that always contain compounds with a wide spectrum of polarity. In this study, we have found a simple method to get high purity betulinic acid from Sycamore outer bark using hot water pre-treatment followed by hydrophilic organic solvent extraction with a yield of 5-6% (w/w). © 2011 The Japan Wood Research Society.