Oleanolic acid

Oleanolic acid is a naturally occurring triterpenoid, widely distributed in food and medicinal plants, related to betulinic acid. It can be found in a large variety of plants, including Olea europaea (olive), Garcinia indica (kokum), Eucalyptus spp., and Phyllanthus amarus (stonebreaker).

Chemistry[edit | edit source]

Oleanolic acid is a pentacyclic triterpenoid compound with a formula of C30H48O3. It is related to betulinic acid and has a similar molecular structure. The compound is one of the triterpenes, a class of chemical compounds composed of three terpene units with the molecular formula C30H48; the structure of triterpenes is considered to be derived from the 30-carbon skeleton of squalene.

Sources[edit | edit source]

Oleanolic acid is found in a wide variety of plants worldwide. It is present in significant quantities in the olive tree (Olea europaea), and is also found in a variety of other food plants and medicinal herbs. These include the kokum tree (Garcinia indica), various species of eucalyptus (Eucalyptus spp.), and the stonebreaker plant (Phyllanthus amarus).

Health Benefits[edit | edit source]

Oleanolic acid has been studied for its potential health benefits. It has been found to have hepatoprotective properties, meaning it can protect the liver from damage. It also has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antitumor properties. Some studies have suggested that oleanolic acid may have potential as a treatment for cancer, diabetes, and heart disease.

Safety and Toxicity[edit | edit source]

While oleanolic acid is generally considered safe, it can be toxic in large amounts. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.