Behenic Acid

Fatty-acidBest with a meal

What is it

Behenic acid (docosanoic acid) is a 22-carbon saturated fatty acid found in moringa, rapeseed (canola), peanut, and other oils. It is also used in cosmetics and as a component of some specialty waxes.

Evidence for 1 use

AI-assisted evidence assessment — talk to your doctor before relying on any single supplement.

Dietary fat component

Mixed Evidence

Behenic acid is a minor component of dietary fat. Specific clinical benefits from behenic acid supplementation have not been established.

How it works

Behenic acid is a long-chain saturated fatty acid. Like other saturated fats, it is incorporated into membranes and used for energy. Some research suggests it may raise LDL cholesterol more than other long-chain saturated fats, but typical dietary intake is low. In skin care and cosmetics, behenic acid derivatives (esters) act as emulsifiers and emollients.

Dosage

There is no RDA for behenic acid. Typical dietary intake is small (a few hundred milligrams per day from foods).

When and how to take it

Consumed as part of dietary fats with meals.

2 commercial forms

Compare the main delivery options and what they’re best suited for.

Behenic acid (in food oils)

Naturally present in moringa, rapeseed, and other oils.

Absorbed with dietary fat

Behenic acid esters (cosmetic)

Functions as emollient and emulsifier.

Used in skin care formulations

Safety

Generally safe as part of normal dietary fat. Concentrated intake from specialty oils or supplements is uncommon.

Who should be cautious

Safe for most people at typical food intake levels. Pregnancy and breastfeeding: dietary amounts are fine.

Interactions

No significant drug interactions.

Food sources

Moringa oil, peanut oil, rapeseed oil

Amount
1 tbsp
%DV
—

Frequently asked questions

Should I take behenic acid as a supplement?⌄

Standalone behenic acid supplements are uncommon. Typical dietary intake from food is generally adequate.

Is it bad for cholesterol?⌄

Some research suggests it can raise LDL cholesterol more than other long-chain saturated fats, but dietary intake is low and the effect at typical exposure is small.

References

Behenic Acid on Wikidata — Wikidata link

Behenic Acid (ChEBI:28941) — ChEBI link

Behenic Acid (PubChem CID 8215) — PubChem link

Behenic Acid on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link

Research on Behenic Acid (PubMed search) — PubMed link

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Evidence-based·How we grade evidence

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.