never heard of it until now...
neat stuff
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ursolic_acidUrsolic acidFrom Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Ursolic acid is a pentacyclic triterpene acid, used in cosmetics,[2] that is also capable of inhibiting various types of cancer cells by inhibiting the STAT3 activation pathway[3][4] and human fibrosarcoma cells by reducing the expression of matrix metalloproteinase-9 by acting through the glucocorticoid receptor. It may also decrease proliferation of cancer cells and induce apoptosis.[5]
Ursolic acid is present in many plants, including apples, basil, bilberries, cranberries, elder flower, peppermint, rosemary, lavender, oregano, thyme, hawthorn, and prunes. Apple peels contain large quantities of ursolic acid and related compounds.[6]
Ursolic acid can serve as a starting material for synthesis of more potent bioactive derivatives, such as antitumor agents.[7] It has been found to reduce muscle atrophy and to stimulate muscle growth in mice.[8][9]
Ursolic acid has potential use as a cardioprotective compound.[10]
Ursolic acid was found to be a weak aromatase inhibitor (IC50 = 32 μm).[11]
Ursolic acid has been shown to increase the amount of muscle and brown fat and decrease obesity and associated conditions when added to diets fed to mice.[12]
Other names for ursolic acid include 3-beta-3-hydroxy-urs-12-ene-28-oic-acid, 3-β-hydroxy-urs-12-en-28-oic acid, urson, prunol, and malol.
