usnic acid

Usnic acid is a naturally occurring, bitter-tasting, yellow dibenzofuran derivative found uniquely in several lichen species (e.g., Usnea, Cladonia, Hypotrachyna)[1][5]. It was first isolated in 1844 and is a secondary metabolite thought to protect lichens from sunlight and deter grazing animals[4][5]. Usnic acid exhibits a broad spectrum of biological activities, including antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antipyretic, and potentially antiprotozoal and antitumor effects, though most in vitro and animal evidence for these effects is of low potency and not well translated to clinical benefit[3]. Its most notable commercial uses are in cosmetics, deodorants, toothpastes, mouthwashes, and medicinal creams due to its antimicrobial properties[1][11]. Usnic acid was also investigated (but not approved) as a dietary supplement for weight loss due to its ability to uncouple mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation, resulting in increased thermogenesis—though this application has been linked to significant hepatotoxicity, including acute liver failure and death, leading to FDA warnings and withdrawal of related products[1][5].

Brand names

UCP-1UCP1UCP 1Lipokinetix

Other names

usnoUsnicUSNEINUSNIACINUNSICACIDSNIC ACIDUsnea acidusninsaeure2-USNICACID(+)-usnic acid(-)-usnic acidracemic usnic acid