Global Ursolic Acid Market By Grade (Cosmetic, Food, Pharmaceutical), By Purity (25% Ursolic Acid, 50% Ursolic Acid, 90% Ursolic Acid, 98% Ursolic Acid, Others), By Form (Powder, Liquid Extract, Capsules, Tablets), By Extraction Method (Solvent Extraction, Supercritical Fluid Extraction, Solid Phase Extraction, Others), By Application (Pharmaceutical, Cosmetics, Functional Foods, Dietary Supplements, Others), By Region and Companies - Industry Segment Outlook, Market Assessment, Competition Scenario, Trends, and Forecast 2024-2033

Report Overview

The Global Ursolic Acid Market is expected to be worth around USD 114.9 Million by 2033, up from USD 61.8 Million in 2023, and grow at a CAGR of 6.4% from 2024 to 2033.

Ursolic Acid is a natural pentacyclic triterpenoid compound found in various fruits, herbs, and plants, such as apples, basil, and rosemary. It is widely recognized for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer properties. Ursolic acid is used in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and dietary supplements due to its potential health benefits.

Ursolic Acid Market refers to the commercial sector dealing with the production, distribution, and consumption of ursolic acid in various applications, including skincare products, nutraceuticals, and functional foods.

The market is driven by increasing awareness of natural ingredients, growing demand for plant-based products, and the expanding cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries. There is a rising demand for ursolic acid due to its health benefits, particularly in skincare and anti-aging formulations. The growing shift towards natural and organic products offers significant opportunities for market expansion, particularly in wellness and personal care products.

The Ursolic Acid market is witnessing a significant surge in interest due to its promising applications in the healthcare sector, particularly for its potential to combat chronic diseases and enhance antioxidant defenses. Research indicates that Ursolic Acid plays a crucial role in inhibiting the proliferation of cancer cells.

Notably, it has demonstrated efficacy in reducing atherosclerotic lesion formation significantly, outperforming resveratrol, a well-known antioxidant, in comparative studies on diabetic mice. This compound reduced lesion formation by an impressive 53%, highlighting its potential as a powerful therapeutic agent.

Further reinforcing its market potential, Ursolic Acid has shown remarkable benefits in cardiovascular health management. In studies focused on myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury, the administration of Ursolic Acid at a dosage of 80 mg/kg markedly improved cardiac function. It also notably reduced the infarct size and oxidative stress in mice, underscoring its therapeutic benefits in critical cardiac conditions.

Moreover, Ursolic Acid’s impact on oxidative stress markers is profound. It has been observed to elevate levels of antioxidant enzymes, notably increasing Glutathione (GSH) by 2.85 Standard Mean Difference (SMD) and decreasing Malondialdehyde (MDA) by 7.16 SMD.

These enhancements in biochemical markers further validate the compound’s role in promoting oxidative balance, making it a valuable asset in the development of treatments for oxidative stress-related ailments.

Key Takeaways

• The Global Ursolic Acid Market is expected to be worth around USD 114.9 Million by 2033, up from USD 61.8 Million in 2023, and grow at a CAGR of 6.4% from 2024 to 2033.
• The Cosmetic grade Ursolic Acid dominates, holding 45.3% of the market by grade.
• Ursolic Acid with 90% purity captures a significant 37.5% share of the market.
• Powder form is preferred in the Ursolic Acid market, accounting for 35.6%.
• Solvent extraction remains the leading method, comprising 45.6% of Ursolic Acid production.
• In applications, the pharmaceutical sector leads, using 39.6% of the Ursolic Acid market.
• The North American Ursolic Acid market holds 38.4%, valued at USD 23.7 million.

By Grade Analysis

In 2023, the Cosmetic segment held a dominant market position in the by-grade segment of the Ursolic Acid Market, capturing a 45.3% share. This segment primarily benefits from the increasing consumer preference for natural and organic ingredients in skincare and beauty products.

Ursolic acid, known for its anti-inflammatory and anti-aging properties, has been extensively utilized by cosmetic manufacturers to formulate products that promise enhanced skin health and elasticity.

Following closely, the Pharmaceutical segment accounted for a 33.2% market share. The demand in this segment is driven by ursolic acid’s therapeutic potential, including anti-cancer, anti-diabetic, and cardioprotective properties. Ongoing research and clinical trials aiming to explore new therapeutic avenues for ursolic acid significantly contribute to the segment’s growth.

The Food segment, with a 21.5% share, also leverages ursolic acid’s health benefits. It is increasingly used as a natural preservative and to enhance the nutritional value of food products.

The rising awareness of clean-label ingredients and the push for healthier dietary options fuel the adoption of ursolic acid in this sector. Collectively, these segments underscore the diverse applications and growing relevance of ursolic acid across different industries.

By Purity Analysis

Ursolic Acid with 90% purity is preferred by 37.5% of the market, highlighting its high demand for quality.

In 2023, 90% Ursolic Acid held a dominant market position in the By Purity segment of the Ursolic Acid Market, with a 37.5% share. This level of purity is particularly favored for its high efficacy in pharmaceutical and cosmetic applications, where higher purity often correlates with superior performance and fewer impurities.

The demand for 90% Ursolic Acid is driven by its robust use in formulations designed to offer potent anti-inflammatory and anti-aging benefits, making it a preferred choice for premium skincare products and specific medical formulations that require high purity for optimal results.

Meanwhile, 98% Ursolic Acid, representing the highest purity available, captured a 25.3% share of the market. This segment caters to specialized applications in both pharmaceutical research and high-end cosmetic products, where ultra-pure ingredients are crucial for achieving targeted outcomes and minimizing adverse reactions.

The 50% Ursolic Acid segment accounted for a 21.2% market share, utilized predominantly in food supplements and less sensitive cosmetic applications, offering a balance between cost and functionality. The least pure, 25% Ursolic Acid, held a 16.0% share, mainly used in broader applications that require cost efficiency over high purity, such as general health supplements and basic personal care products.

By Form Analysis

The powdered form of Ursolic Acid leads the market forms, accounting for 35.6% due to its versatile application.

In 2023, Powder held a dominant market position in the By Form segment of the Ursolic Acid Market, with a 35.6% share. The popularity of powder form is driven by its versatility and ease of integration into various product formulations, including dietary supplements, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals.

Its fine particulate nature allows for greater control over dosages and rapid absorption in various applications, making it a preferred choice for manufacturers looking to harness the benefits of ursolic acid in their products.

Following the powder form, Liquid Extract accounted for a 28.4% market share. This form is favored for its convenience in use and high bioavailability, making it ideal for tinctures and liquid supplements that require quick assimilation into the body. Capsules, with a 21.0% share, are popular among consumers seeking precise dosages and ease of consumption, particularly in the dietary supplements market.

Tablets rounded out the market with a 15.0% share, offering a durable and portable option for delivering ursolic acid. They are commonly used in both health supplements and pharmaceuticals, where stability and extended shelf life are key considerations. Collectively, these forms cater to diverse preferences and application needs across the ursolic acid market.

By Extraction Method Analysis

Solvent extraction remains the leading method for obtaining Ursolic Acid, capturing 45.6% of the extraction market.

In 2023, Solvent Extraction held a dominant market position in the Extraction Method segment of the Ursolic Acid Market, with a 45.6% share. This traditional method of extraction is highly favored due to its cost-effectiveness and efficiency in extracting high yields of ursolic acid from plant materials.

Solvent extraction’s popularity persists because it can be easily scaled up for large production volumes, making it suitable for industries requiring bulk quantities, such as pharmaceuticals and cosmetics.

Supercritical Fluid Extraction, capturing a 30.2% share, is celebrated for its environmentally friendly approach and ability to produce purer extracts without the use of toxic solvents. This method uses supercritical carbon dioxide to extract ursolic acid, reducing the risk of contamination and preserving the integrity of the sensitive compounds within the extract.

Solid Phase Extraction, with a 24.2% share, is utilized for its precision and capability to concentrate ursolic acid from dilute solutions. This method is particularly useful in analytical and laboratory settings where purity and specificity are critical.

By Application Analysis

In applications, the pharmaceutical sector is the largest, utilizing 39.6% of Ursolic Acid for various drug formulations.

In 2023, the Pharmaceutical segment held a dominant market position in the By Application segment of the Ursolic Acid Market, with a 39.6% share. This dominance is primarily attributed to ursolic acid’s broad therapeutic properties, including anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and antiviral effects, which make it highly valuable in drug formulations and therapeutic interventions.

Pharmaceutical companies extensively utilize ursolic acid in the development of new medications aimed at treating a range of chronic and acute conditions, driving substantial demand within this sector.

The Cosmetics segment followed with a 26.8% share, leveraging ursolic acid’s anti-aging and skin-repairing properties. Its inclusion in skin care products such as creams, serums, and lotions helps in reducing fine lines and improving skin elasticity, appealing to the growing market for natural cosmetic solutions.

Functional Foods accounted for 18.3% of the market, incorporating ursolic acid due to its health-enhancing benefits, including boosting immunity and reducing inflammation, making it popular in health-oriented food products.

Dietary Supplements captured a 15.3% share, as ursolic acid supplements are increasingly consumed for their potential benefits in weight management, muscle strength, and overall wellness, catering to the health-conscious consumer base. These segments collectively reflect the diverse and expanding applications of ursolic acid across various industries.

Key Market Segments

By Grade

• Cosmetic
• Food
• Pharmaceutical

By Purity

• 25% Ursolic Acid
• 50% Ursolic Acid
• 90% Ursolic Acid
• 98% Ursolic Acid
• Others

By Form

• Powder
• Liquid Extract
• Capsules
• Tablets

By Extraction Method

• Solvent Extraction
• Supercritical Fluid Extraction
• Solid Phase Extraction
• Others

By Application

• Pharmaceutical
• Cosmetics
• Functional Foods
• Dietary Supplements
• Others

Driving Factors

Increasing Prevalence of Chronic Diseases Boosts Demand

The growing prevalence of chronic diseases such as diabetes, cancer, and cardiovascular ailments worldwide is a primary driver for the Ursolic Acid market. As healthcare systems and patients seek effective treatments with fewer side effects, Ursolic Acid’s proven efficacy in managing these conditions positions it as a valuable component in therapeutic regimens.

Its ability to inhibit cancer cell growth and reduce heart disease symptoms encourages its integration into pharmaceutical formulations. Additionally, its impact on enhancing primary antioxidant defenses, as evidenced by significant increases in Glutathione (GSH) levels (SMD of 8.01), further supports its therapeutic value, fostering market growth.

Advances in Research Highlighting Therapeutic Potential

Significant advances in biomedical research have illuminated the broad therapeutic potential of Ursolic Acid, particularly in its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. This ongoing research not only enhances understanding but also validates Ursolic Acid’s effectiveness in clinical settings, making it attractive for health supplements and drug development.

As more findings emerge, such as the substantial elevation of GSH levels (SMD of 8.01), they catalyze interest from biotech and pharmaceutical companies, driving further investment into its market expansion.

Rising Consumer Interest in Natural Health Products

There is a marked increase in consumer preference for natural and plant-based health products, driven by a growing awareness of the potential side effects associated with synthetic drugs. Ursolic Acid, being a naturally occurring compound found in common foods like apples, basil, and cranberries, aligns well with consumer trends toward cleaner and greener lifestyle choices.

This alignment is bolstered by its proven ability to significantly enhance the body’s antioxidant mechanisms (GSH levels SMD of 8.01), boosting its appeal and adoption in the nutraceutical industry, and potentially increasing market demand.

Restraining Factors

High Costs of Extraction and Purification Processes

The extraction and purification processes required to isolate Ursolic Acid from natural sources are both complex and costly. This factor significantly restrains market growth, as these high costs can deter new entrants and limit the scalability of production.

Companies looking to incorporate Ursolic Acid into their products face increased production expenses, which can translate into higher prices for end consumers, potentially reducing market penetration and consumer adoption rates.

Limited Consumer Awareness and Market Penetration

Despite its promising health benefits, Ursolic Acid still suffers from limited consumer awareness, which poses a substantial challenge to its market expansion. Many consumers remain unaware of Ursolic Acid and its therapeutic properties, leading to slower market penetration compared to more well-known supplements.

Increased educational efforts and marketing are necessary to boost awareness and drive demand, but these efforts require significant investment and time to yield results.

Regulatory Challenges and Approval Delays

Navigating the regulatory landscape for natural compounds like uric acid can be intricate and time-consuming. Approval delays and stringent regulations in various countries restrict the speed at which new Ursolic Acid-based products can enter the market.

These regulatory hurdles can discourage manufacturers from investing in extensive research and development of Ursolic Acid products, further hampering market growth and innovation.

Growth Opportunity

Expansion into Emerging Markets with Rising Health Consciousness

Emerging markets present significant growth opportunities for the Ursolic Acid market, fueled by increasing health consciousness and disposable incomes. As populations in these regions become more aware of health and wellness, the demand for natural and therapeutic supplements like uric acid is expected to rise.

This trend is underscored by the stark statistics from the World Health Organization, which reported that nearly 41 million out of 55 million global deaths in 2016 were due to non-communicable diseases (NCDs), accounting for 75% of global mortality.

Tapping into these markets could drive considerable growth, especially if companies tailor their marketing strategies to address local health concerns and preferences, potentially increasing market share and presence in untapped areas.

Integration with Functional Foods and Beverages

The functional foods and beverages sector offers a lucrative opportunity for the integration of Ursolic Acid, thanks to its health-promoting properties. By incorporating Ursolic Acid into everyday products such as juices, teas, and health bars, companies can attract health-conscious consumers looking for added benefits in their dietary choices.

This approach not only broadens the consumer base but also enhances product value, catering to the growing trend of health optimization through diet.

Collaborations for Enhanced Research and Product Development

Partnering with academic institutions and research facilities can provide a pathway to deepen the understanding and applications of Uric acid. Such collaborations can lead to the development of more effective and targeted Ursolic Acid-based treatments and supplements.

These partnerships could accelerate product innovation, improve efficacy, and expand the range of applications, from pharmaceuticals to nutraceuticals. Investing in research collaborations is essential for companies aiming to lead in innovation and capture emerging opportunities in the health and wellness sectors.

Latest Trends

Increasing Use in Cosmetic and Skincare Products

Ursolic Acid is rapidly gaining popularity in the cosmetic and skincare industries due to its anti-aging and skin-healing properties. This trend is driven by consumer demand for natural ingredients that offer effective results without harsh chemicals.

Ursolic Acid is being incorporated into a range of products, from anti-wrinkle creams to serums, promoting skin elasticity and reducing the appearance of fine lines. This adoption not only broadens the market for Ursolic Acid but also positions it as a key component in natural cosmetic formulations.

Development of Ursolic Acid Supplements for Weight Management

There is a growing trend in developing dietary supplements containing Ursolic Acid aimed at weight management and muscle growth. Research suggesting that Ursolic Acid can help reduce body fat and increase muscle mass has captured the interest of the virtual fitness and wellness communities.

As the body of evidence grows, companies are responding by creating targeted supplements that cater to consumers looking to enhance their physical fitness through natural means, potentially opening new avenues in the health supplement market.

Technological Advances in Ursolic Acid Extraction Methods

Technological advancements in extraction methods are making the production of Ursolic Acid more efficient and cost-effective. Innovations in extraction technology allow for higher yields and purity, which are crucial for the compound’s integration into various products.

These advancements are not only improving the scalability of Ursolic Acid production but are also reducing environmental impact, aligning with global sustainability goals. As these technologies continue to evolve, they enable wider use of Ursolic Acid across different sectors, enhancing market growth prospects.

Regional Analysis

The North American Ursolic Acid market holds a 38.4% share, valued at USD 23.7 million.

The Ursolic Acid market demonstrates distinct characteristics across various regions, reflecting diverse consumer preferences, regulatory environments, and levels of health consciousness.

North America dominates the global landscape, accounting for 38.4% of the market with a valuation of USD 23.7 million. This is largely due to advanced healthcare infrastructure, heightened consumer awareness regarding the benefits of natural supplements, and substantial investment in research and development.

Europe follows, driven by increasing demand for natural cosmetics and health products, coupled with stringent regulatory standards that favor high-quality, natural ingredients. The market in Europe is bolstered by a robust wellness trend and growing consumer preference for products that offer health benefits without synthetic additives.

The Asia Pacific region is emerging as a significant market, driven by rising disposable incomes and expanding middle-class populations that are increasingly health-conscious. This region shows potential for rapid growth with its large population base and growing interest in preventive healthcare.

Meanwhile, the markets in Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are developing, with increasing awareness and usage of natural supplements. These regions are expected to experience gradual growth due to improved healthcare infrastructure and the natural availability of medicinal plants used in traditional remedies.

Key Regions and Countries

• North America
  • US
  • Canada
• Europe
  • Germany
  • France
  • The UK
  • Spain
  • Italy
  • Rest of Europe
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • South Korea
  • India
  • Australia
  • Rest of APAC
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Rest of Latin America
• Middle East & Africa
  • South Africa
  • Saudi Arabia
  • UAE
  • Rest of MEA

Key Players Analysis

In 2023, the global Ursolic Acid market is shaped significantly by the contributions of key players who are driving innovation, expanding market reach, and enhancing the quality of Ursolic Acid-based products.

Among these players, Acetar Bio-Tech and ALB Technology Limited stand out for their robust production capabilities and extensive product portfolios that cater to both pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries, emphasizing the versatility of Ursolic Acid applications.

BASF S.E., a heavyweight in the chemical industry, leverages its advanced R&D facilities to enhance Ursolic Acid’s efficacy and safety profiles, thereby strengthening market trust and consumer confidence. Similarly, Biosearch Life and Cayman Chemical Company, Inc. are instrumental in advancing scientific research that underpins Ursolic Acid’s therapeutic claims, particularly in anti-inflammatory and anticancer contexts.

Changsha E.K HERB and Changsha Luyuan Bio-Tech are noted for their focus on traditional herbal extracts, including Ursolic Acid, which they supply in various forms to meet growing global demands. Their expertise in traditional Chinese medicine provides them with unique insights into plant-based therapeutics, which is increasingly appealing in global markets.

Further contributions from companies like Geneham Pharmaceutical and Kingherbs Limited, which specialize in botanical extracts, help diversify the applications of Ursolic Acid in health supplements and nutraceuticals, addressing consumer demands for natural health solutions.

Lastly, regional specialists like Hunan KangLi Biotechnology Co., Ltd, and Hainan Super Biotech Co. Ltd are crucial for tapping into local markets and adapting products to regional consumer preferences, thereby enhancing market penetration and cultural relevance.

Top Key Players in the Market

• Acetar Bio-Tech
• ALB Technology Limited
• BASF S.E.
• Beantown Chemical Co., Ltd
• Biosearch Life
• Cayman Chemical Company, Inc.
• Changsha E.K HERB
• Changsha Luyuan Bio-Tech
• Geneham Pharmaceutical
• Hainan Super Biotech Co. Ltd
• HAWSON BIOTECH CO., LTD
• Hunan KangLi Biotechnology Co., Ltd
• Kingherbs Limited
• Leshan Jinxin Kang Pharmacy Co., Ltd
• Merck KGaA
• Run Shaanxi Days of Bio-tech
• Sabinsa
• Sami Labs
• Santa Cruz Biotechnology, Inc.
• Shaanxi Hopeland Chem-Tech
• Shanghai Auton Biotic Technologies Co., Ltd
• Sichuan Lvyuan Herb Co., Ltd
• Technology; MicroHerb
• Vidya Europe SAS Sabinsa Corporation
• Vitiva d.d.
• Wilshire Technologies, Inc.
• Xi’an Lyphar Biotech Co., Ltd
• Xuancheng Baicao Pharmaceutical
• Zhangjiajie Hengxing Biological

Recent Developments

• In November 2024, Cayman Chemical Company, Inc. is active in the Ursolic Acid sector, offering various products such as Ursolic Acid and 3-epi Ursolic Acid. They supply assay kits, antibodies, biochemicals, and proteins, also providing contract research services.
• In 2024, Hainan Super Biotech Co. Ltd marked a significant advancement in the ursolic acid sector by obtaining the FSSC22000 Certificate, demonstrating their adherence to high production standards. This company specializes in producing various concentrations of ursolic acid, a natural antioxidant extracted from rosemary, tailored for applications in cosmetics and health supplements.
• In 2023, Geneham Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. launched a new supplement featuring ursolic acid, aimed at health-conscious consumers. This supplement, derived from natural sources like apple peels and herbs, is designed to support weight loss, muscle growth, and skin health, leveraging its anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties.

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