Magnesium stearate

Magnesium stearate is a salt of stearic acid, a saturated fatty acid found in many foods, including vegetable and animal oils, such as cocoa and flaxseed. Due to its properties, magnesium stearate is one of the most used additives in medicines and food supplements. We can differentiate between two qualities of magnesium stearate: pharmaceutical and food, purer, which is used as a diluent and lubricant in tablets, as well as a binder, thickener, emulsifier and release agent; cosmetic and industrial, less pure, is used in the manufacture of make-up powders.

Magnesium stearate: what is it for?

Magnesium stearate is commonly found as an additive in pills and tablets because it is a binder or emulsifier, with which its main uses are as an additive, diluent and lubricant for tablets, since it prevents the ingredients from adhering to the machine. encapsulation during the production of solid tablets. It has natural lubricating properties, very important to maintain the quality of the vitamins produced.

It is also used as a binder, thickener, emulsifier and release agent in cosmetic products.

Although it is not usually found used in food products in isolation, in combination with other additives it can be used in the manufacture of sweets.

Magnesium Stearate Benefits

Magnesium stearate is a magnesium salt of stearic acid that appears as a white, odorless, water-insoluble powder at room temperature. In addition to accelerating production, magnesium stearate gives capsules and tablets more consistency, making them easier to swallow through the gastrointestinal tract. In addition, it is often used as an excipient, to enhance the therapeutic effects of the active ingredients of some medicines, improving their absorption, solubility and consistency.