Horse Chestnut Extract Seed Powder Solvent Extraction 100% Natural Food Grade Bulk Raw Material

Product Overview

Horse Chestnut Extract Seed Powder is a natural, food-grade raw material derived from the seeds of the horse chestnut tree (Aesculus hippocastanum). It is produced through solvent extraction, a method that ensures high purity and efficient concentration of active compounds. The final product is 100% natural, free from synthetic additives, and suitable for use in dietary supplements and functional food formulations.

Common Varieties and Grades

The most commonly available grades include standard food-grade powder and high-purity extracts, typically defined by their content of aescin, the primary bioactive compound. Aescin levels in commercial extracts range from 10% to 20%, with higher grades achieving up to 25%. Varieties may differ based on geographical origin, harvesting season, and processing methods.

Key Technical and Nutritional Properties

The powder is typically light brown to beige in color and has a slightly bitter taste. It is highly soluble in water and stable under normal storage conditions. Key technical properties include:

• Active compound: Aescin (10–25%)
• Moisture content: ≤ 8%
• Loss on drying: ≤ 5%
• Particle size: 100–300 microns (fine powder)
• Heavy metals and pesticide residues: Below regulatory limits (e.g., FDA, EU standards)

Harvesting and Production Process

Horse chestnut seeds are harvested from mature fruits in late autumn. After collection, the seeds are cleaned, dried, and ground into a coarse powder. The solvent extraction process uses non-toxic, food-grade solvents (such as ethanol or ethyl acetate) to extract aescin. The solvent is then removed through evaporation, leaving behind a concentrated, natural seed powder. The process is designed to preserve the integrity and bioactivity of the active compounds.

Common Applications

This raw material is widely used in the plant extract supplements category for its anti-inflammatory, venotonic, and circulatory support properties. It is commonly incorporated into:

• Supplements for varicose veins and chronic venous insufficiency
• Anti-edema and circulation-enhancing formulations
• Functional foods and natural health products targeting vascular health
• Herbal-based dietary supplements with natural ingredient profiles

Quality and Grading Standards

Quality is assessed based on purity, aescin content, microbial safety, and absence of contaminants. The product complies with international food safety standards such as FDA, EU Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006, and ISO 22000 for food safety management. Regular testing ensures consistency and adherence to natural, non-GMO, and food-grade specifications.

Packaging and Export Context

The raw material is typically packed in vacuum-sealed, moisture-resistant bags or in bulk in sealed, tamper-evident containers. Packaging sizes range from 25 kg to 500 kg per container, depending on buyer requirements. It is widely traded globally, with common export destinations including Europe, North America, and Asia. The product is shipped under standard international logistics with temperature and humidity controls to maintain quality.