Silicon (as Bamboo Extract)

Silicon as Bamboo Extract (Bambusoideae species, typically Bambusa vulgaris or Phyllostachys spp.) is a concentrated source of bioavailable orthosilicic acid and silica-bound compounds. Silicon content in standardized bamboo extract typically ranges from 70–75% silica (SiO2) by dry weight, representing one of the highest plant-based silicon concentrations known. The bioactive fraction delivered as orthosilicic acid (Si(OH)4) constitutes approximately 1–5 mg elemental silicon per standard serving (300–500 mg extract dose). Bamboo extract also contains flavonoids (primarily tricin at 0.02–0.05% dry weight), phenolic acids (hydroxycinnamic acids, ferulic acid at trace levels ~0.01%), and small amounts of polysaccharides (2–4% dry weight). Protein content is negligible (<1%). Fat content is essentially absent (<0.1%). Carbohydrates primarily exist as structural polysaccharides (cellulose-bound silica), not free sugars. Mineral co-factors present in trace amounts include potassium (~50–100 mg/100g extract), calcium (~20–40 mg/100g), and magnesium (~10–20 mg/100g). Bioavailability note: orthosilicic acid form is significantly more bioavailable (~50–60% absorption) compared to silica dioxide or amorphous silica (<1% absorption). Absorption occurs primarily in the small intestine; renal excretion is the primary elimination route. No significant caloric contribution.