Betulinic Acid Market growing at a CAGR of 7.3% from 2025 to 2033

The global betulinic acid market size was estimated at USD 2,505.03 million in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 4,662.8 million by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 7.3% from 2025 to 2033. The growth is propelled by several key drivers. The most significant is the increasing demand for plant-derived and natural active ingredients across multiple consumer sectors.

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In pharmaceuticals, intensive research into its anti-cancer mechanisms and potential as a complementary therapy is a major driver, fueled by the global rise in cancer prevalence. The industry is a specialized and growing segment within the botanical extract and pharmaceutical industries. This pentacyclic triterpenoid is primarily sourced from the outer bark of birch trees (genus Betula), though it can also be found in other plants like plane trees and jujube. Its value stems from its potent and diverse biological activities, which include anti-cancer, anti-viral, anti-inflammatory, and skin-healing properties. Currently, the market is characterized by its high-value, low-volume nature, with demand stemming from pharmaceutical research, the cosmetics and personal care sector, and the nutraceutical industry, where it is used in premium dietary supplements.

Despite strong demand, the industry faces notable challenges. The high production cost associated with advanced CVD and PVD processes remains a significant barrier, particularly for smaller manufacturers and price-sensitive end markets. Uniform deposition on diverse substrates, metals, ceramics, and composites presents technical obstacles, as inconsistent thickness and adhesion can undermine performance and customer confidence.

In addition, limited awareness among potential end-users about the full value proposition of betulinic acid dampens adoption in emerging applications and geographies. These factors restrict market penetration and slow the uptake outside traditional high-performance sectors.

The cosmetics industry’s strong shift toward “clean” and bioactive formulations is accelerating its adoption, as betulinic acid is valued for its anti-aging, anti-acne, and skin-soothing properties. Furthermore, growing health consciousness and consumer preference for natural preventive healthcare solutions are boosting its profile in the nutraceuticals market.

Market Concentration & Characteristics

The industry is experiencing significant growth, driven by its diverse applications across pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and nutraceuticals. Betulinic acid, a naturally occurring pentacyclic triterpenoid primarily extracted from birch bark, has garnered attention for its anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, anti-viral, and antioxidant properties. As consumer preference shifts towards natural and plant-based ingredients, betulinic acid’s role in developing therapeutic and cosmetic products is expanding.

In the pharmaceutical sector, betulinic acid is being explored for its potential in treating various diseases, including cancer, HIV/AIDS, and neurodegenerative disorders. Its ability to inhibit the replication of viruses and its anti-cancer properties make it a valuable compound in drug development. The rising prevalence of chronic diseases and the demand for natural therapeutic agents are propelling research and investment in betulinic acid-based treatments.

The cosmetics industry is also witnessing an increased incorporation of betulinic acid into skincare formulations due to its anti-aging and skin-regenerating properties. Consumers are increasingly seeking products with clean labels and natural ingredients, driving the demand for betulinic acid in personal care products. This trend aligns with the broader movement towards sustainability and health-conscious consumer choices.

Forms Insights

The powder segment led the market and accounted for the largest revenue share of 55.2% in 2024. This growth is due to its ease of handling, longer shelf life, and versatility in formulation across pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, and cosmetics. Its powdered form allows precise dosing and efficient incorporation into tablets, capsules, creams, and other products. Additionally, the stability of betulinic acid in powder form makes it preferred for industrial-scale manufacturing and research applications.

The composites segment is anticipated to grow at the fastest CAGR of 7.5% from 2025 to 2033 during the forecast period. This is due to its convenience, precise dosing, and ease of consumption for end-users. Capsules enhance the bioavailability and stability of betulinic acid, making them a preferred format in the nutraceutical and pharmaceutical industries. Their popularity is also driven by growing consumer preference for ready-to-use, supplement-based health products.

Application Insights

The pharmaceuticals segment accounted for the largest revenue share of 44.7% in 2024. This is due to its extensive use in developing drugs targeting cancer, viral infections, and inflammatory diseases. Betulinic acid’s potent therapeutic properties and ongoing research for novel treatments drive its demand in this sector. Additionally, the rising prevalence of chronic diseases and increasing focus on natural bioactive compounds further strengthen its pharmaceutical applications.

The cosmetics segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR of 7.5% from 2025 to 2033. The is due to its growing use in anti-aging, skin-regenerating, and antioxidant formulations. Consumers increasingly prefer natural and plant-derived ingredients, driving demand in skincare and personal care products. Its effectiveness in improving skin health and appearance makes betulinic acid a key ingredient in premium cosmetic formulations.

Betulinic Acid Market Report Scope

Report Attribute	Details
Market size value in 2025	USD 2,658.7 million
Revenue forecast in 2033	USD 4,662.8 million
Growth rate	CAGR of 7.3% from 2025 to 2033
Base year for estimation	2024
Historical data	2018 – 2023
Forecast period	2025 – 2033
Quantitative units	Volume in kilotons; revenue in USD million/billion, and CAGR from 2025 to 2033
Report coverage	Revenue forecast, volume forecast, competitive landscape, growth factors, and trends
Segments covered	Form, application, region
Regional scope	North America; Europe; Asia Pacific; Latin America; Middle East & Africa
Country scope	U.S.; Canada; Mexico; Germany; UK; France; Italy; Spain; China; India; Japan; South Korea; Brazil; Argentina; Saudi Arabia; South Africa
Key companies profiled	Manus Aktteva Biopharma LLP; Aktin Chemicals; Capot Chemicals; Kono Chem Co., Ltd.; Tokyo Chemical Industry Co., Ltd.; Glentham Life Sciences; Cayman Chemical; Jigs Chemical Limited; Toronto Research Chemicals (TRC); Xi’an Eco Biotech; Xi’an International Healthcare; DaXingAnLing Lingonberry Boreal Biotech Co., Ltd.; Symrise BioActives GmbH
Customization scope	Free report customization (equivalent up to 8 analyst’s working days) with purchase. Addition or alteration to country, regional, and segment scope.
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