Asiatic acid, also known as 2α,3β,23-trihydroxyurs-12-ene-28-oic acid, is a triterpenoid compound found in plants of the genus Centella, commonly known as Gotu Kola. Centella has been widely used in traditional medicine in many regions including China and India due to its potent medicinal benefits. Asiatic acid has been isolated from Centella and has gained significant attention for its pharmacological properties, especially in treating various chronic diseases.
Chemical Name and Formula
The chemical name of Asiatic Acid is 2α,3β,23-trihydroxyurs-12-ene-28-oic acid. Its chemical formula is C30H48O5, and the structure is shown below.
Formula Weight
Asiatic Acid has a molecular weight of 488.7 g/mol.
CAS No.
Asiatic acid has a CAS number of 464-92-6.
Top Searched Keywords on Google and Synonyms on Google
Some of the top searched keywords for Asiatic Acid on Google include Asiatic Acid cream, Asiatic Acid benefits, Asiatic Acid skin benefits, and Asiatic Acid anti-aging. Some of the synonyms for Asiatic Acid include Centellic acid, Asiaticoside B, and Urs-12-en-28-oic acid.
Health Benefits
Asiatic Acid has been found to have numerous health benefits due to its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Some of these health benefits include:
Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Asiatic Acid has been demonstrated to have potent anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce the symptoms of chronic inflammatory conditions, such as arthritis, colitis, and other auto-immune disorders.
Antioxidant Properties: Asiatic Acid has also been found to possess strong antioxidant properties, which can help to protect the body against oxidative stress, resulting in the prevention of chronic diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases.
Skin Healing Properties: Asiatic Acid can enhance wound healing and repair of damaged skin by generating collagen fibers, regulating inflammatory responses, and recovering skin elasticity. This makes Asiatic Acid helpful in treating various skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and burns.
Neuroprotection: Several studies have shown that Asiatic Acid has neuroprotective properties that may protect against neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain.
Anti-tumor Properties: Asiatic Acid has been shown to have anti-tumor properties that can inhibit tumor cell proliferation and induce apoptosis. This makes Asiatic Acid a potential candidate for cancer treatment.
Potential Effects
Asiatic Acid has several potential effects that may be beneficial for health, depending upon the method of use, amount, and a user's health status. These effects may include:
Reduction of Inflammation: Asiatic Acid can inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines, resulting in reduced inflammation.
Skin Healing and Rejuvenation: Asiatic Acid possesses skin healing properties by stimulating collagen synthesis and improving blood circulation, providing skin rejuvenation and reducing scars.
Antioxidant Activity: Asiatic Acid has potent antioxidant activity which can neutralize reactive oxygen species, providing protection against oxidative stress.
Neuroprotection: Asiatic Acid may have a role in nerve growth, reducing the risk of neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease.
Anti-tumor Properties: Asiatic Acid has been found to inhibit tumor cell proliferation, promoting apoptosis, reducing the risk of cancer progression.
Mechanisms
Asiatic Acid exerts its pharmacological effects through several mechanisms, including:
Regulating Inflammatory Responses: Asiatic Acid regulates the production of cytokines, suppressing inflammatory responses.
Enhancing Skin Cells Growth: Asiatic Acid promotes collagen production in human fibroblast cells, reducing the appearance of scars, and improving skin elasticity.
Antioxidant Activity: Asiatic Acid has a powerful antioxidant activity which neutralizes free radicals, reducing oxidative stress.
Neuroprotective Activities: Asiatic Acid has been shown to alleviate oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain, promoting nerve growth.
Anti-Tumor Properties: Asiatic Acid has been explored as a novel treatment for cancer, inducing apoptosis and inhibiting tumor cell proliferation.
Safety
Asiatic Acid is widely considered safe when used in recommended doses. However, some people may experience some side effects such as skin irritation, allergies, and digestive disorders. Therefore, anyone wishing to use Asiatic Acid should consult their healthcare provider first.
Side-Effects
Asiatic Acid may cause some side effects, especially at higher doses. These effects might include skin irritation, allergies manifesting as hives, or digestive disorders. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should discontinue use and consult their healthcare provider.
Dosage information
The recommended dose and mode of use for Asiatic Acid depend upon the intended use, symptoms severity, and individual health status. Asiatic Acid supplements in pill or capsule form typically range from 5-100 mg per day. However, users should consult with their healthcare providers before taking any supplements containing Asiatic Acid.
In conclusion, Asiatic Acid, a bioactive compound found in Centella, has potent pharmacological properties, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, skin healing, and neuroprotective benefits. Ongoing studies to understand the bioavailability and mechanisms of Asiatic Acid in various human physiological systems provide the scientific community with an ever-expanding horizon of its benefits. When used appropriately, it can aid in the prevention and management of various chronic diseases.
