Usnic Acid is an essential compound used widely in the formulation of dietary supplement products, as well as in the production of deodorants, medicinal creams, and some cosmetics. Recent researches show that the compound may play an essential role in promoting weight loss and combating obesity. Hence, it may have applications in the development of bodybuilding supplements.
What is Usnic Acid?
Usnic Acid is a dibenzofuran compound that is naturally isolated from various genera of Lichens such as Usnea, Cladonia, Hypotrachyna, Lecanora, and Ramalina. It exists in nature in both d- and l- forms. The compound is believed to protect lichens from the damaging effects of sunlight. With its bitter taste, it is also found to possibly ward off animals from lichens. Usnic acid was first isolated in the mid-1880s. It was later synthesized through laboratory procedures sometime between 1933 to 1937.
The compound Usnic Acid is also known as Usneine, Usninic acid, Usniacin, 2,6-Diacetyl-7,9-dihydroxy-8,9b-dimethyldibenzo[b,d]furan-1,3(2H,9bH)-dione, Usnea diffracta Vain extract, and lichen extract. Its molecular formula is C18H16O7 and its molecular weight is 344.315 g/mol.
Usnic Acid has a bitter taste and a yellowish solid powder appearance. It is practically insoluble in water but is soluble in ethanol, acetone, and ethyl acetate.
Usnic Acid CAS numbers
The CAS numbers for Usnic Acid which are used for its identification are 125-46-2 racemic, 7562-61-0 (R)-(+), and 6159-66-6 (S)-(–).
Usnic Acid Sources
Aside from being obtained from different Lichen species, Usnic Acid may also be taken naturally from Hops resin and Kombucha tea. Although Lichen species are not commonly consumed as food, Usnic Acid from the said species are found to be safe for human consumption.
Constituents of Lichen extract
Aside from Usnic Acid, there are many other compounds found in Lichen extract which are known to provide various health benefits. These compounds include salazinic acid, methyl-β-orcinol carboxylate, ethyl haematommate, atranorin, and many other Depsides, tridepsides, and tetradepsides.
Usnic Acid forms and specifications
Usnic Acid 98% purity based on high-performance liquid chromatography test is the most common form of Usnic Acid powder used in dietary supplement formulations. It is available in several online ingredient suppliers. However, to ensure product quality and purity, it is important to buy only from legitimate ingredient suppliers like Nutriavenue.
Usnic Acid 98% powder may be bought in bulk quantities from Nutriavenue. If you buy the product in bulk, it is usually packed in paper drums with two layers of poly bags inside. Although this is the standard packaging material at Nutriavenue, you may request customized packaging depending on your needs and preference. You may also buy the product from our company in lesser quantities.
How does Usnic Acid work?
Usnic Acid is believed to possess powerful free radical scavenging effects. Hence, it is an effective antioxidant agent. While it is not fully known how Usnic Acid promotes weight loss among individual users, some scientists theorize that its antioxidant properties may be linked to the said benefit. As an antioxidant, it is believed that the compound cleanses body cells and improves overall vital functions, including metabolism. Hence, by improving metabolism, Usnic acid may promote weight loss.
It is also believed by some experts that the compound may work in weight loss by promoting thermogenesis or the fat-burning process. Further studies are being conducted to verify this claim.
The compound is also a known antimicrobial agent. As such, it effectively prevents the rapid growth of some strains of bacteria in the body, thereby preventing infection. The compound is also shown to possess antiproliferative properties.
Usnic Acid Health Benefits
The following are among the most well-known benefits and uses of Usnic Acid:
It effectively promotes weight loss
The use of Usnic acid in the production of dietary supplements for weight loss has become quite extensive across the globe in recent years. However, some weight loss supplements containing Usnic Acid has been withdrawn from public use as it is found to have been included in excessive quantities. High doses of Usnic acid are found in studies to cause hepatotoxic effects. Hence, it should never be taken in excessive doses to prevent complications.
It may enhance skin health
The compound Usnic acid is concluded in one study to have positive effects on wound healing. When applied topically, it prevents infections and reduces inflammation. With its antioxidant effects, the compound is also used in cosmetic and hygiene products as it improves overall skin appearance and provides brighter and more glowing skin among individual users.
It has antimicrobial properties
Studies have also shown that the compound may effectively work against some gram-positive bacteria and mycobacterium. With the increasing risks of antibiotic resistance, experts are looking into the use of Usnic Acid to control bacterial growth.
It may be used for bodybuilding
Some dietary supplement products for bodybuilders and athletes also contain relative amounts of Usnic acid as it is claimed to be effective in enhancing thermogenesis. Hence, it promotes the burning of fats and the development of lean muscle mass.
Usnic Acid Side Effects
When taken within recommended doses, Usnic Acid is believed to be safe and effective. However, recent studies reveal that it has hepatotoxic effects when taken within high doses. Hence, it should never be taken without a physician’s advice especially among persons with liver damage and underlying health conditions. Common mild side effects associated with Usnic Acid use include stomach irritation, diarrhea or constipation, nausea, and vomiting.
Usnic Acid Dosage
Most researches show that the recommended daily intake for Usnic Acid is at 500 mg. However, physicians may prescribe a different dose depending on the user’s weight, age, and overall physical condition. Pregnant and lactating women, as well as those who are suffering from certain medical conditions, are advised to not take the compound without a physician’s recommendation.
Where to buy bulk Usnic acid powder?
You may buy bulk Usnic acid powder from Nutriavenue, an FDA-registered ingredient supplier which is also certified and recognized by entities like Halal, Kosher, and GMP. Our company is the best choice for all your dietary supplement ingredient needs as we offer high-quality products at very affordable prices.
Aside from Usnic acid, we also offer many other ingredients for dietary supplement formulations and research purposes. For your convenience, we also offer shipping services through the air, sea, and couriers like UPS and FedEx. For a complete list of our products and services, you may visit our website at Nutriavenue.com.
Should you have any queries, you may contact our technical support staff at our website.
