CAS Registry Number :77-52-1
Synonyms: 3beta-Hydroxyurs-12-en-28-oic acid
Molecular Structure  
Molecular Formula  C30H48O3   Molecular Weight: 456.71
EINECS: 201-034-0   Melting point: 283-285 ºC   alpha 59 º (c=0.3, pyridine)
Synonyms: Malol, micromerol, urson, prunol, (3b)-3-hydroxyurs-12-en-28-oic acid

Ursolic acid Description:

Ursolic acid is a is a pentacyclic triterpenoid.
Distribution: Ursolic acid is present in many plants, including apples, bilberries, cranberries, elder flower, peppermint, lavender, oregano, thyme, hawthorn, prunes. Action of Ursolic acid: Ursolic acid has medicinally action, both topically and internally. Ursolic acid is used in many cosmetic preparations for its anti-inflammatory, antitumor and antimicrobial properties.

Ursolic acid has antibacterial and antifungal activity. Tests have shown that Ursolic acid inhibits the growth of Candida albicans and Microsporium lenosum.

Ursolic acid has anti-inflammatory properties and is used in ointments to treat burns.
Topical application of ursolic acid inhibited TPA-induced initiation and promotion of tumor growth.

PHARMACOLOGICAL ACTIVITIES

Contemporary scientific research which led to the isolation and identification of ursolic acid revealed and confirmed that several pharmacological effects, such as antitumor, hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory (oral and topical), antiulcer, antimicrobial, anti-hyperlipidemic, sedation, antioxidation and antiviral, can be attributed to ursolic acid which is widely used in medicine. However, its anti-inflammatory (topical), antitumor (skin cancer), and antimicrobial properties make it useful in cosmetic applications.