shikimic acid

Shikimic acid is a naturally occurring organic compound, specifically a cyclohexene, cyclitol, and cyclohexanecarboxylic acid. It serves as a crucial biochemical metabolite in plants and microorganisms, acting as a key intermediate in the shikimate pathway for the biosynthesis of aromatic amino acids such as phenylalanine, tyrosine, and tryptophan. This metabolic pathway is absent in animals. In the pharmaceutical industry, shikimic acid is a vital base material for the production of the antiviral drug oseltamivir (Tamiflu). Beyond its role as a precursor, shikimic acid itself exhibits a range of biological activities, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-acne, anti-dandruff, exfoliating, whitening, hair-growth stimulating, antibacterial, and antiplatelet aggregation properties. These diverse effects have led to its application in cosmetics and as a dietary supplement.

Other names

shikimate