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

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

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

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

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.

See Also

• Triterpenoid
• Betulinic acid
• Olea europaea
• Garcinia indica
• Eucalyptus
• Phyllanthus amarus