Overview
Ferulic acid is a plant-derived phenolic compound with potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and lipid-modulating properties. It is naturally abundant in whole grains such as rice, wheat, and rye bran and is also available as a dietary supplement. Clinical evidence shows that ferulic acid supplementation (1000 mg/day for 6 weeks) significantly improves lipid profiles by reducing total cholesterol, LDL-C, and triglycerides, while increasing HDL-C in hyperlipidemic individuals [1]. It also reduces oxidative stress and systemic inflammation, suggesting a protective role in cardiovascular disease [1][7]. Additionally, oral ferulic acid (200 mg/day for 2 weeks) improves skin barrier function by reducing transepidermal water loss and increasing stratum corneum hydration in healthy individuals [2]. These effects may be mediated through modulation of redox-sensitive pathways and enhancement of endogenous antioxidant defenses [7].
Dosage Guide
Clinical Notes
- Ferulic acid is generally well-tolerated at doses up to 1000 mg/day for at least 6 weeks.
- No established RDA or upper limit (UL) due to lack of long-term safety data.
- Potential synergistic effects when combined with other polyphenols or antioxidants (e.g., in whole grain or coffee matrices).
- Absorption may be enhanced when consumed with dietary fiber sources such as arabino-xylan-oligosaccharides [3].
Research
1000 mg/day ferulic acid for 6 weeks significantly improved lipid profiles, oxidative stress, and inflammatory markers in hyperlipidemic subjects.
200 mg/day ferulic acid for 2 weeks improved skin barrier function by reducing transepidermal water loss and increasing stratum corneum hydration in healthy men.
Consumption of wheat bran extract rich in arabino-xylan-oligosaccharides increased postprandial serum ferulic acid, indicating its release and absorption from dietary fiber.
Rye bran intake significantly increased urinary excretion of ferulic acid, confirming its bioavailability, though no effect on LDL oxidation was observed.
Filtered coffee consumption increased urinary excretion of ferulic acid, indicating dietary contribution from coffee.
Brewer's spent grain extract containing bioaccessible ferulic acid reduced postprandial glycemia and insulinemia in normoglycemic subjects.
Review highlights ferulic acid's cardiovascular benefits via antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and metabolic mechanisms, supporting its therapeutic potential.
