Sabinsa Corporation Secures Patent for Preparation of Water Soluble Salts of Lipoic Acid

PISCATAWAY, N.J., May 9, 2007 - Sabinsa Corporation today announced that it has secured its 30th patent, U.S. patent #7,202,270 titled "Convenient stable non-hygroscopic crystalline solid forms of racemic and chiral LA-plus salts." This patent protects the preparation of water soluble salts of lipoic acid, including salts of the active chiral form R(+)-lipoic acid.

"The water soluble salts of lipoic acid manufactured under this patented process are able to be incorporated into various compositions, including topical formulas, much more easily than other forms of lipoic acid," stated Lakshmi Prakash, Ph.D., vice president of innovation and business development, Sabinsa Corporation.
Alpha-lipoic acid is a powerful antioxidant nutrient with diverse nutritional and cosmeceutical applications, and its chiral form R(+)-lipoic acid has been shown in studies to be even more efficacious. Historically, its insolubility in water and lack of stability in certain matrices has deterred manufacturers from using lipoic acid in certain compositions. This process eliminates these issues and allows for the nutrient to be utilized for new and innovative types of applications.

"This patent further demonstrates Sabinsa's commitment to developing novel ingredients that help to eliminate the obstacles manufacturers encounter during the formulation process," added Dr. Muhammed Majeed, founder and CEO, Sabinsa Corporation. "The addition of this patent further strengthens our extensive intellectual property portfolio."

Sabinsa Corporation, founded in 1988, is a manufacturer and supplier of herbal extracts, cosmeceuticals, minerals and specialty fine chemicals. Sabinsa's mission is to provide alternative and complementary natural products for human nutrition and well-being. Over the past nine years, Sabinsa has brought to market more than 50 standardized botanical extracts and privately funded several clinical studies in conjunction with prestigious institutions in support of these products. With more than 100 scientists working full time conducting ongoing research both in India and the United States, Sabinsa continues to develop and patent phytonutrients for the world market. All products intended for human consumption are certified Kosher. For more information visit www.sabinsa.com.

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