Compare tanshinone IIA and sodium tanshinone IIA sulfonate in chemical structure, solubility, properties, and ingredient sourcing.
Tanshinone IIA vs. Sodium Tanshinone IIA Sulfonate
Tanshinone IIA and sodium tanshinone IIA sulfonate (STS) are related compounds associated with Danshen (Salvia miltiorrhiza), but they are not the same ingredient.
The main difference is that STS is a sulfonated derivative of tanshinone IIA with improved water solubility. For ingredient buyers and product developers, understanding this distinction helps prevent specification mismatches when sourcing Danshen‑related ingredients.
1. Key Differences
| Feature | Tanshinone IIA | Sodium Tanshinone IIA Sulfonate |
|---|---|---|
| CAS number | 568‑72‑9 | 69659‑80‑9 |
| Molecular formula | C₁₉H₁₈O₃ | C₁₉H₁₇NaO₆S |
| Molecular weight | Approx. 294.34 g/mol | Approx. 396.40 g/mol |
| Chemical type | Natural diterpene quinone | Sulfonated derivative |
| Water solubility | Limited | Improved |
| Key consideration | Lipophilic properties | Greater compatibility with aqueous systems |
These are general chemical characteristics. Confirm the identity and specifications of the actual material before purchase.
2. What Is Tanshinone IIA?
Tanshinone IIA is a lipophilic constituent found in the roots of Salvia miltiorrhiza, commonly known as Danshen or Chinese red sage.
It is studied as a Danshen constituent and used as an analytical marker in relevant research. Its limited water solubility may affect solvent selection, analytical procedures, and formulation development.
3. What Is Sodium Tanshinone IIA Sulfonate?
Sodium tanshinone IIA sulfonate (STS) is a chemically modified derivative of tanshinone IIA. The sulfonate group changes its physicochemical properties, particularly its water solubility.
Although the compounds are related, they have different chemical identities and molecular formulas. Their analytical methods, formulation requirements, and applicable specifications should therefore be evaluated separately.
STS should not be treated as a direct substitute for tanshinone IIA without confirming suitability for the intended application.
4. What Should Buyers Check When Sourcing?
When comparing Danshen‑related ingredients, B2B buyers should verify:
- Identity: Confirm the full chemical or botanical name and CAS number.
- Specification: Check the stated assay, purity, and acceptance criteria.
- COA: Review batch‑specific test results and identification methods.
- Analytical method: Ensure the method is suitable for the specific compound.
- Application requirements: Confirm solubility, handling conditions, documentation, and destination‑market requirements.
A Danshen extract is a mixture of botanical constituents, not automatically equivalent to isolated tanshinone IIA or STS. Its composition depends on the extraction process and product specification.
For botanical ingredient options, see our Salvia miltiorrhiza Extract.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are tanshinone IIA and STS the same compound? No. STS is a sulfonated derivative of tanshinone IIA, with a different molecular formula and physicochemical properties.
Which compound is more water‑soluble? STS has improved water solubility compared with tanshinone IIA. Actual solubility should be confirmed using product‑specific technical data.
Can they use the same HPLC method? Not necessarily. Analytical methods must be suitable for the compound being identified or quantified.
What documents should buyers request? Start with the product specification and batch‑specific COA. Additional analytical, safety, or regulatory documentation depends on the ingredient and intended market.
Conclusion
Tanshinone IIA and sodium tanshinone IIA sulfonate are related but distinct Danshen‑derived compounds. Their main differences concern chemical identity and water solubility.
Before sourcing, confirm the exact ingredient, assay specification, analytical method, and intended application.
Looking for Danshen extract or related botanical ingredients? Contact us to discuss your B2B requirements.