Ursolic Acid

    Researchedby:
    Kamal Patel
    Last Updated: October 13, 2024

    Ursolic Acid is a molecule found in apple peels, and in the Ayurveda herb known as Holy Basil. No human interventions exist right now, but ursolic acid appears to be a promising body recomposition agent; able to increase muscle mass and decrease fat mass. May be anti-fertility, however.

    Summary

    Ursolic acid is a phytochemical found in a wide variety of plants but most well known for being in apple peels.

    Although the science is preliminary, it seems to be able to reduce fat accumulation and increase muscle mass gain when in a fed state, and to induce fat burning and preserve muscle mass when in a fasted state.

    What are other names for Ursolic Acid

    Note that Ursolic Acid is also known as:
    • Apple peel extract
    Ursolic Acid should not be confused with:
    • Usnic Acid

    Dosage information

    Animal studies have found benefits with ursolic acid in the diet at 0.05-0.2% of the diet, which is around 10-40mg/kg (based on their weight and food intake) and the estimated human dose equivalent to this is 1.6-6.4mg/kg bodyweight; for a 150lb adult it would be the range of 110-440mg.

    The lone human study used the higher end of this range, 150mg three times a day with meals totalling 450mg each day, and found some biological acitivty. Until further research arises, thrice daily dosing of 150mg with meals is recommended.

    Research Breakdown