Description_x000D_ General description_x000D_ Echinocystic acid (EA) is a natural triterpene acid derivative. Its dehydrogenation in the presence of selenium has been reported. It has been reported to induce programmed cell death in human HepG2 (human hepatocellular liver carcinoma cell line) cells and human promyelocytic leukemia cells (HL-60). Due to its anticancer action, it is widely used in herbal medicines. EA undergoes oxidation in the presence of chromic acid to afford lactone of 3:12:16-triketo-13-hydroxyoleananonic acid. EA has been reported to be present in the bark and leaves of Pithecellobium dulce._x000D_ Echinocystic acid is an active component of Codonopsis lanceolata, which is treated as food and herbal medicine in Asia. Itis also found in fruits of Gleditsia sinensis._x000D_ Application_x000D_ Echinocystic acid (EA) may be used for the synthesis of isonorechinocystenedione, via oxidation in the presence of Kiliani′s reagent._x000D_ Biochem/physiol Actions_x000D_ Echinocystic acid is known to possess anti inflammatory property and might be effective in treating cough and bronchitis. Echinocystic acid prevents Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection by inhibiting viral entry.