What is the Difference Between Lauric Acid and Caprylic Acid?

Lauric acid and caprylic acid are both medium-chain fatty acids found in various natural sources, such as coconut oil and milk fat. The main differences between them are their molecular structure, ketogenic properties, and antimicrobial activities.

1. Molecular Structure: Lauric acid has a 12-carbon atom chain, with the chemical formula C12H24O2, while caprylic acid has an 8-carbon atom chain, with the chemical formula C8H16O2.
2. Ketogenic Properties: Caprylic acid is about six times more ketogenic than lauric acid. Ketogenic ability refers to the promotion of ketone formation by fatty acids. This difference in ketogenic properties may impact their use in ketogenic diets or supplements.
3. Antimicrobial Activities: Caprylic acid has been found to be more potent in terms of antifungal and antibacterial activities than lauric acid, particularly at lower concentrations. In one study, the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of caprylic acid against Candida albicans was 40 μg/ml, while the MIC of lauric acid was 10 mg/ml.

In summary, lauric acid and caprylic acid differ in their molecular structure, ketogenic properties, and antimicrobial activities. Caprylic acid is more ketogenic and has stronger antimicrobial properties than lauric acid. These differences may influence their applications in various industries, such as dietary supplements, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals.

Comparative Table: Lauric Acid vs Caprylic Acid

Here is a table comparing the differences between lauric acid and caprylic acid:

Lauric acid is a saturated fatty acid with a 12-carbon atom chain, while caprylic acid is a saturated fatty acid with an 8-carbon atom chain. Caprylic acid is about six times more ketogenic than lauric acid, meaning it promotes the formation of ketones more effectively. In terms of antimicrobial and antifungal properties, caprylic acid is more potent at lower concentrations compared to lauric acid.