Common Synonyms for Ursolic Acid
While 'ursolic acid' is its most widely recognized name in scientific and health circles, it has been given several other identifiers over time, particularly in historical and cosmetic contexts. These synonyms include:
- Malol: This name is frequently cited and used, particularly within chemical databases, as a synonym for ursolic acid. It relates to its discovery in apples, as 'malol' is a clear reference to the genus Malus.
- Prunol: Found in a variety of fruits, including prunes (Prunus species), this name is also recognized as an alternative for ursolic acid.
- Urson: This is another common, less formal alternative name for the compound.
- $eta$-Ursolic acid: This designation specifies the stereochemistry of the molecule's structure.
The Systematic Chemical Name
In chemical nomenclature, ursolic acid has a precise and unambiguous name that describes its structure: (3β)-3-hydroxyurs-12-en-28-oic acid. While this full name is rarely used outside of technical chemical documents, it is the most accurate way to refer to the compound.
Key Natural Sources of Ursolic Acid
As a plant-derived pentacyclic triterpenoid, ursolic acid is present in many common edible and medicinal plants. The concentration varies by plant species, growth stage, and even location. Some of the most notable sources include:
- Apples: Particularly high concentrations are found in the peel, where it forms part of the cuticular wax.
- Rosemary: This popular herb is one of the richest sources, with some leaves containing up to 2.95% ursolic acid.
- Thyme: Like rosemary, thyme is another Lamiaceae family herb known to be abundant in this compound.
- Oregano: Another flavorful herb that contains ursolic acid.
- Holy Basil (Tulsi): This herb is well-known for its health benefits, and ursolic acid is one of its active components.
- Cranberries and Bilberries: These fruits are also significant sources, with the compound found primarily in the skin.
- Lavender: This plant contains moderately high content of ursolic acid.
What are the Main Uses and Benefits?
Ursolic acid's potential therapeutic effects have been the subject of extensive research, particularly in preclinical studies. Its wide range of biological activities suggests numerous potential health benefits, which include:
- Anti-inflammatory effects: It is known to inhibit inflammatory pathways, and studies have demonstrated its capacity to alleviate inflammation in various models.
- Antioxidant properties: Ursolic acid can scavenge reactive oxygen species, protecting cells from oxidative damage.
- Anticancer potential: Research has investigated its ability to inhibit cancer cell proliferation and induce apoptosis (programmed cell death) in various cancer cell lines.
- Cardioprotective effects: It has shown a potential to slow down the development of cardiovascular diseases and improve heart function in some studies.
- Anti-diabetic effects: It may help improve insulin sensitivity and regulate glucose metabolism.
- Muscle health: Some studies have explored its potential to stimulate muscle growth and reduce muscle atrophy.
Ursolic Acid vs. Oleanolic Acid
Ursolic acid is a pentacyclic triterpenoid, a class of natural products derived from plants. It is a constitutional isomer of oleanolic acid, meaning they share the same chemical formula ($C{30}H{48}O_3$) but have a different arrangement of atoms. This slight structural difference can lead to variations in their pharmacological activity and how they are metabolized, although they share many similar biological effects.
| Feature | Ursolic Acid | Oleanolic Acid |
|---|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | $C{30}H{48}O_3$ | $C{30}H{48}O_3$ |
| Triterpene Class | Ursane-type | Oleanane-type |
| Molecular Structure | Different arrangement of atoms from oleanolic acid, but is an isomer. | Different arrangement of atoms from ursolic acid, but is an isomer. |
| Key Sources | Apple peels, rosemary, thyme, holy basil. | Olive leaves, garlic, and ginseng. |
| Biological Activities | Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anticancer, cardioprotective, muscle health. | Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, hepatoprotective, antibacterial. |
| Primary Use | Cosmetics and dietary supplements, often studied for muscle health. | Widely studied for liver health, though present in many medicinal herbs. |
Conclusion
Beyond its formal chemical name, ursolic acid is also known by several common synonyms, including Malol, Prunol, and Urson, particularly in chemical and botanical contexts. This compound, found abundantly in apple peels, rosemary, and other herbs, is a versatile pentacyclic triterpenoid with a range of documented biological activities, from antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects to potential benefits for cardiovascular and muscle health. While it shares many similarities with its isomer, oleanolic acid, its unique structure and specific biological functions continue to be a focus of research in the fields of health, nutrition, and cosmetics. For those in pharmacology, the systematic name (3β)-3-hydroxyurs-12-en-28-oic acid is used for precise identification.
For more detailed information on ursolic acid's health effects and mechanism of action, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) provides extensive research and publications. Learn more about ursolic acid on PubMed Central
Additional Considerations
Despite the promising research, it is important to remember that ursolic acid has poor water solubility and low bioavailability, which limits its clinical applications. This has led researchers to develop various derivatives and delivery methods to improve its effectiveness. The safety of long-term use of ursolic acid supplements has also not been fully tested in humans, and individuals should consult a healthcare provider before beginning supplementation.
Potential Drug Interactions
Because ursolic acid is metabolized in the liver, there is potential for it to interact with other medications, particularly those that are also processed by liver enzymes like statins or certain antidepressants. This highlights the importance of professional medical advice before taking supplements.
What is Another Name for Ursolic Acid?
Malol: This synonym is derived from the genus name for apples, Malus, where ursolic acid was first identified. Prunol: Another common alternative, referring to its presence in various fruits of the Prunus genus, such as prunes. Urson: This is a simplified, common name used to refer to ursolic acid. 3β-hydroxyurs-12-en-28-oic acid: The systematic chemical name that precisely identifies the compound's structure. Pentacyclic Triterpenoid: A broader chemical classification that ursolic acid belongs to, along with its isomer, oleanolic acid.
