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{{Short description|A natural compound found in many plants}}
{{Chembox
{{Chembox
| Name = Ursolic acid
| verifiedrevid = 477241703
| ImageFile =  
| ImageFile = Ursolic_acid.svg
| ImageSize =  
| ImageSize = 200px
| ImageAlt =  
| ImageAlt = Skeletal formula of ursolic acid
| IUPACName = 3β-Hydroxy-urs-12-en-28-oic acid
| IUPACName = (3_)-3-Hydroxyurs-12-en-28-oic acid
| OtherNames =  
| OtherNames = Prunol, Malol, Urson, 3-beta-Hydroxyurs-12-en-28-oic acid
}}
}}


'''Ursolic acid''' is a naturally occurring [[triterpenoid]] compound found in various plants, including [[apple]] peels, [[basil]], [[cranberries]], [[peppermint]], and [[oregano]]. It is known for its potential health benefits, which include anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer properties.
'''Ursolic acid''' is a naturally occurring [[triterpenoid]] compound found in a variety of plants, including [[fruits]], [[herbs]], and [[spices]]. It is known for its potential [[health benefits]] and is used in [[cosmetics]], [[pharmaceuticals]], and [[nutritional supplements]].


== Sources ==
==Chemical structure and properties==
Ursolic acid is present in a wide variety of plants, but it is most notably concentrated in the waxy coatings of [[apple]] peels. Other significant sources include [[herbal]] plants such as [[holy basil]], [[lavender]], [[thyme]], [[hawthorn]], and [[prunella vulgaris]]. The compound is commonly extracted from these plants for use in various [[supplement]]s and [[cosmetic]] products.
Ursolic acid is a pentacyclic triterpenoid with the chemical formula C<sub>30</sub>H<sub>48</sub>O<sub>3</sub>. It is characterized by its five-ring structure and a hydroxyl group at the 3-beta position. The compound is a white, crystalline powder that is insoluble in water but soluble in organic solvents such as ethanol and acetone.


== Structure and Properties ==
==Sources==
Ursolic acid is a pentacyclic triterpenoid that adopts a ring structure typical of its class. It is closely related to [[oleanolic acid]], differing only in the position of one methyl group. This compound is hydrophobic in nature, which contributes to its role in the plant cuticle as a protective barrier against environmental stressors.
Ursolic acid is found in the [[epidermis]] of fruits such as [[apples]], [[cranberries]], and [[prunes]]. It is also present in [[herbs]] like [[rosemary]], [[thyme]], and [[oregano]]. The compound is often extracted from these sources for use in various applications.


== Biological Activities ==
==Biological activities==
### Antioxidant Activity ###
Ursolic acid has been studied for its wide range of biological activities. It exhibits [[anti-inflammatory]], [[antioxidant]], and [[anticancer]] properties. Research suggests that ursolic acid may help in reducing [[muscle atrophy]], improving [[glucose metabolism]], and enhancing [[lipid metabolism]].
Ursolic acid has been shown to possess strong antioxidant properties, helping to neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress in the body.


### Anti-inflammatory Activity ###
===Anti-inflammatory effects===
It also exhibits anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting various pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, making it a potential therapeutic agent for inflammatory diseases.
Ursolic acid has been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes, making it a potential therapeutic agent for inflammatory conditions.


### Anticancer Activity ###
===Antioxidant properties===
Research has indicated that ursolic acid can inhibit the proliferation of various cancer cell lines, including breast, colon, and leukemia cells. It is believed to induce apoptosis and inhibit metastasis in cancer cells.
The compound acts as an antioxidant by scavenging free radicals and protecting cells from oxidative stress, which is linked to various chronic diseases.


### Other Activities ###
===Anticancer potential===
Ursolic acid has also been studied for its potential in weight management, diabetes control, and neuroprotective effects, although more research is needed to fully understand these benefits.
Studies indicate that ursolic acid can induce apoptosis in cancer cells and inhibit tumor growth, suggesting its potential as an anticancer agent.


== Health Benefits and Uses ==
==Applications==
Due to its pharmacological properties, ursolic acid is used in traditional medicine and as a supplement for its potential health benefits. It is also incorporated into skin care products for its anti-aging properties, promoting skin elasticity and reducing the appearance of wrinkles.
Ursolic acid is used in the formulation of [[cosmetic products]] due to its skin-protective properties. It is also included in [[dietary supplements]] aimed at promoting [[muscle growth]] and [[weight loss]]. In the pharmaceutical industry, it is being explored for its potential in developing new [[therapeutic drugs]].


== Research and Clinical Studies ==
==Safety and toxicity==
While ursolic acid shows promise in preclinical studies, clinical evidence is limited. Ongoing research aims to better understand its mechanisms of action, optimal dosages, and potential therapeutic applications in humans.
Ursolic acid is generally considered safe when consumed in amounts found in food. However, high doses may cause gastrointestinal discomfort and other side effects. Further studies are needed to fully understand its safety profile.


== Safety and Toxicology ==
==Related pages==
Ursolic acid is generally considered safe when consumed in amounts typically found in foods. However, high doses may have potential side effects, and its safety profile in high concentrations or long-term use is not fully established.
* [[Triterpenoid]]
* [[Antioxidant]]
* [[Anti-inflammatory]]


== Conclusion ==
==References==
Ursolic acid is a bioactive compound with multiple potential health benefits. Its role in traditional and modern medicine continues to be an area of active research, with the hope of fully unlocking its therapeutic potential.
{{Reflist}}


[[Category:Biochemistry]]
[[Category:Triterpenes]]
[[Category:Phytochemicals]]
[[Category:Antioxidants]]
[[Category:Medicinal chemistry]]
[[Category:Anti-inflammatory agents]]
 
{{medicine-stub}}

Revision as of 11:56, 9 February 2025

A natural compound found in many plants


Chemical Compound
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References

Ursolic acid is a naturally occurring triterpenoid compound found in a variety of plants, including fruits, herbs, and spices. It is known for its potential health benefits and is used in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and nutritional supplements.

Chemical structure and properties

Ursolic acid is a pentacyclic triterpenoid with the chemical formula C30H48O3. It is characterized by its five-ring structure and a hydroxyl group at the 3-beta position. The compound is a white, crystalline powder that is insoluble in water but soluble in organic solvents such as ethanol and acetone.

Sources

Ursolic acid is found in the epidermis of fruits such as apples, cranberries, and prunes. It is also present in herbs like rosemary, thyme, and oregano. The compound is often extracted from these sources for use in various applications.

Biological activities

Ursolic acid has been studied for its wide range of biological activities. It exhibits anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer properties. Research suggests that ursolic acid may help in reducing muscle atrophy, improving glucose metabolism, and enhancing lipid metabolism.

Anti-inflammatory effects

Ursolic acid has been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes, making it a potential therapeutic agent for inflammatory conditions.

Antioxidant properties

The compound acts as an antioxidant by scavenging free radicals and protecting cells from oxidative stress, which is linked to various chronic diseases.

Anticancer potential

Studies indicate that ursolic acid can induce apoptosis in cancer cells and inhibit tumor growth, suggesting its potential as an anticancer agent.

Applications

Ursolic acid is used in the formulation of cosmetic products due to its skin-protective properties. It is also included in dietary supplements aimed at promoting muscle growth and weight loss. In the pharmaceutical industry, it is being explored for its potential in developing new therapeutic drugs.

Safety and toxicity

Ursolic acid is generally considered safe when consumed in amounts found in food. However, high doses may cause gastrointestinal discomfort and other side effects. Further studies are needed to fully understand its safety profile.

Related pages

References

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