The Surprising Role of Wool to Make Vitamin D

 7-DHC in Lanolin and its Vitamin D Connection

In the ever-evolving landscape of health and wellness, understanding the origins of essential nutrients is key. While many associate Vitamin D with sunshine, fortified foods, and supplements, you'll be hard-pressed to find anyone who knows where Vitamin D comes from in supplement form. You could never possibly guess that Vitamin D supplements come from:

Wool Wax!

Also known as lanolin, wool wax contains abundant amounts of 7-dehydrocholesterol (or 7-DHC for short) which is converted into Vitamin D3 (The form of Vitamin D naturally produced and used by our bodies.)

What is 7-DHC and Why is it Important?

7-dehydrocholesterol (7-DHC) is a sterol, a type of lipid, that is naturally found in the skin of mammals, including humans and sheep. Its significance lies in its role as a provitamin, meaning it's a compound that can be converted into a vitamin. Specifically, 7-DHC is the direct precursor to Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol).

The process is remarkably similar to how our own bodies produce Vitamin D. When our skin is exposed to ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation from sunlight, the 7-DHC present in our own epidermal cells undergoes a photochemical reaction. This reaction transforms 7-DHC into pre-vitamin D3, which then, through a heat-dependent process, isomerizes into active Vitamin D3.

Lanolin: The Unexpected Source of 7-DHC

Lanolin, often referred to as wool wax or wool grease, is a waxy substance secreted by the sebaceous glands of wool-bearing animals, most notably sheep. It serves as a natural protective coating for their fleece, shielding it from the elements and keeping it soft and supple. For centuries, humans have utilized lanolin for its moisturizing and emollient properties, finding applications in skincare, textiles, and industrial products.

From Lanolin to Vitamin D Supplements: The Production Process

The journey from wool to Vitamin D supplement involves several steps:

• Extraction: Lanolin is collected from freshly shorn wool.
• Purification: The crude lanolin undergoes refining processes to isolate and purify the 7-DHC. This often involves techniques like solvent extraction and crystallization.
• UV Irradiation: The purified 7-DHC is then subjected to controlled exposure to UVB radiation, mimicking the action of sunlight on skin. This converts the 7-DHC into pre-Vitamin D3.
• Isomerization: The pre-Vitamin D3 is then heated to convert it into stable Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol).
• Formulation: The final Vitamin D3 is then incorporated into various supplement forms, such as capsules, tablets, or liquids, often with other ingredients to enhance absorption and stability.

This bio-synthetic pathway allows for the consistent and reliable production of Vitamin D3, ensuring a readily available source for individuals who may not get enough from sun exposure or dietary intake. These supplements remain a cornerstone of preventive health for millions worldwide.

Where Might You Find Lanolin in Products Today?

While the primary use of 7-DHC derived from lanolin is in the production of Vitamin D supplements, lanolin itself, in its various forms, continues to be valued for its exceptional moisturizing and protective properties. You might encounter lanolin in:

• Moisturizing Balms and Creams: Lanolin is used in balms and creams like SunDown's Lanolin-Infused Tallow Balm to  provide deep moisturization, protection, and to add 7-DHC naturally into the balm. 
• Nipple Cream: Lanolin is the most important (and sometimes the only) ingredient in many creams, lotions, and balms designed for breastfeeding mothers. Its occlusive nature helps to seal in moisture and protect the skin barrier.
• Lip Balms: It is found in many natural animal-based lip balms as it is a very effective moisturizer and barrier against harsh environmental conditions to protect your lips from dryness.
• Textile Treatments: Historically, lanolin has been used to treat wool fabrics, enhancing their water resistance and softness.