Ingredient Profile
Dahlia Extract
A dual-action botanical for metabolic and gut health.
Sourced from dahlia tubers and petals, this extract offers two clinically studied mechanisms: natural prebiotic fiber (inulin) for gut microbiome support, and a novel plant compound shown in a human clinical trial to improve insulin sensitivity and blood sugar regulation.
Overview
Dahlia extract is a dual-function botanical ingredient drawn from dahlia tubers and petals. The tuber contributes inulin, a well-established prebiotic fiber that supports gut microbiome balance, while the petals are the source of butein and related flavonoids (isoliquiritigenin and sulfuretin) studied for their role in glucose metabolism.
In a published human clinical trial involving participants with prediabetes and type 2 diabetes, dahlia extract was associated with improved glucose tolerance, with pre- and post-treatment liver and kidney function markers showing no adverse changes. Research indicates that butein's effect on glucose regulation is most pronounced when present together with isoliquiritigenin and sulfuretin, rather than as an isolated compound — a key reason formulators specify a standardized multi-compound extract rather than isolated butein alone.
Specifications
- Botanical source
- Dahlia tuber (inulin fiber) and petal (butein, flavonoid complex)
- Key marker compound
- Butein, alongside isoliquiritigenin and sulfuretin
- Format
- Standardized dry extract powder
- Clinical evidence
- Human RCT in prediabetes / type 2 diabetes population (glucose tolerance endpoint)
- Compliance note
- Position with structure/function language only (e.g. "supports healthy blood sugar levels") — not a disease treatment, prevention, or cure claim. Confirm wording against local regulatory guidance (e.g. FSSAI, FDA) before launch.
Formulation benefits
- Prebiotic fiber source supporting gut microbiota balance
- Clinically trialed support for healthy blood sugar regulation
- Differentiated, novel positioning versus common metabolic-health ingredients
Applications
Frequently asked questions
What part of the dahlia plant is used in the extract?
Both parts are used for different benefits — the tuber is a source of inulin, a prebiotic fiber, while the petals are standardized for butein and related flavonoids studied for glucose metabolism support.
Can dahlia extract be marketed as a diabetes treatment?
No. While human research shows promising effects on glucose tolerance, dahlia extract should be marketed using structure/function language (e.g. "supports healthy blood sugar levels") rather than disease-treatment claims. Brands should confirm wording against local regulatory requirements (such as FSSAI or FDA guidance) before launch.
Why is butein combined with other flavonoids rather than used alone?
Clinical research indicates butein's glucose-regulating effect is significantly stronger when present alongside isoliquiritigenin and sulfuretin, so standardized extracts specify all three marker compounds rather than isolated butein.
What formats is dahlia extract typically supplied in?
It's generally supplied as a standardized dry powder extract for use in capsules, tablets, or as an inclusion in metabolic-health and gut-health functional food and beverage formulations.
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