Ursolic acid

A natural compound found in many plants

Chemical Compound
Identifiers
CAS Number
PubChem CID
ChemSpider ID
UNII
ChEBI
ChEMBL
Properties
Chemical Formula
Molar Mass
Appearance
Density
Melting Point
Boiling Point
Hazards
GHS Pictograms	[[File:|50px]]
GHS Signal Word
GHS Hazard Statements
NFPA 704	[[File:|50px]]
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

• Triterpenoid
• Antioxidant
• Anti-inflammatory