Triterpenoids are naturally occurring organic compounds derived from six isoprene units, commonly found in plants, fungi, and some animals. Most exist in cyclic forms and serve as precursors to steroids and sterols like cholesterol and squalene. Their diverse structures contribute to significant biological activities, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-cancer effects. In skincare, they support collagen synthesis, wound healing, and hydration, making them valuable in anti-aging treatments.

These compounds are abundant in medicinal plants such as ginseng and licorice, as well as in fungi like Ganoderma lucidum (Reishi mushroom) and some marine organisms. Their potent bioactivities make them a focus of research for applications in medicine, cosmetics, and functional foods, with ongoing studies exploring their therapeutic potential.

Triterpenoid (Wikipedia)

Triterpenes are a class of terpenes composed of six isoprene units with the molecular formula C₃₀H₄₈; they may also be thought of as consisting of three terpene units. Animals, plants and fungi all produce triterpenes, including squalene, the precursor to all steroids.

Squalene: One of the most important triterpenes

Hopane: An example of a pentacyclic triterpene