oleanolic acid

Oleanolic acid is a naturally occurring pentacyclic triterpenoid compound found in many plants, including olives, apples, and various medicinal herbs. It is widely distributed in food and medicinal plants as an aglycone of saponins. Pharmacologically, oleanolic acid exhibits a broad spectrum of biological activities including hepatoprotective, antitumor, antibacterial, antiviral (including weak anti-HIV and anti-HCV activity), antiparasitic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects. Its mechanisms include induction of phase 2 detoxifying enzymes such as NADH–quinone oxidoreductase and heme oxygenase 1 via activation of the Nrf2 pathway; inhibition of inflammatory mediators like inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase 2; modulation of immune responses; and cytoprotective effects against oxidative stress. While relatively non-toxic at dietary levels or traditional use doses, high doses may cause liver enzyme elevation indicating potential hepatotoxicity[1][4][5][9].

Other names

oleanic acidCaryophyllinAstrantiagenin C(3.beta.)-3-Hydroxyolean-12-en-28-oic acidOleanolOleanoic Acid HydrateOleanolsA currencyureOleanolic acid (Standard)Oleanolic acid, United States Pharmacopeia (USP) Reference Standard