Salidroside

Salidroside (Sal) is a natural phenylpropanoid glycoside, chemically known as β-D-Glucopyranoside, 2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)ethyl, with the molecular formula C14H20O7 and molecular weight of 300.3 g/mol. It is primarily isolated from the root and rhizome of the Rhodiola rosea plant.

• Abbreviation: Sal
• IUPAC Name: β-D-Glucopyranoside, 2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)ethyl
• Molecular Formula: C14H20O7
• Molecular Mass: 300.3 g/mol
• CAS Number: 10338-51-9

Chemical and Structural Description

Salidroside is a phenylpropanoid glycoside composed of a glucose moiety (β-D-glucopyranoside) bonded to a 2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)ethyl group. It appears as a white to light brown crystalline powder with a characteristic mild odor and bitter taste. It is highly soluble in water, methanol, and ethanol, yet poorly soluble in ether. The compound’s melting point is around 159–160°C with a boiling point approximation of 549.5°C.

Biological and Functional Context

Salidroside is recognized as one of the chief active components of Rhodiola rosea, a plant known for its adaptogenic properties, especially for enhancing physical and mental endurance. Its pharmacological effects have been widely studied and include:

• Antioxidant activity: Scavenges free radicals and protects cells from oxidative stress.
• Anti-inflammatory effects: Modulates inflammatory responses in tissues.
• Neuroprotective properties: Provides protection for nerve cells and may improve cognitive and mood disorders.
• Anti-fatigue and anti-aging roles: Enhances physical stamina and delays aging processes.
• Cardiovascular and cerebrovascular protection: Supports heart and brain health through multiple mechanisms.
• Anti-tumor potential: Exhibits inhibitory effects on certain cancer cell types.

Due to these properties, salidroside is utilized in pharmaceutical preparations, dietary supplements, and cosmetics focused on health enhancement and age-related wellness.

Source and Extraction

Salidroside is mainly extracted from the dried roots and rhizomes of Rhodiola species using methods like ethanol reflux, ultrasonic extraction, or microwave-assisted extraction. The purified compound used in commercial products meets high purity standards (often above 98%).

Analytical Confirmation

Structural identification and purity confirmation are commonly performed using nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS), and chromatographic techniques.

Specification Table

Salidroside’s well-documented pharmacological profile makes it a valuable compound in medicinal, nutraceutical, and cosmetic applications focused on promoting health, longevity, and resilience.

1. https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Salidroside
2. https://www.chemicalbook.com/article/study-on-pharmacological-action-and-application-of-salidroside.htm
3. https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/pharmacology-toxicology-and-pharmaceutical-science/salidroside
4. https://www.guidetopharmacology.org/GRAC/LigandDisplayForward?ligandId=13729
5. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Salidroside
6. https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/chemistry/salidroside
7. https://www.chemicalbook.com/ChemicalProductProperty_EN_CB3353251.htm
8. https://standards.chromadex.com/SALIDROSIDE