Probiotic & Fiber · Fermented/Probiotic

Urolithin A

Provisional Strong Scorecompound

Hermetica Superfood Encyclopedia

Published March 18, 2026Last updated March 18, 2026Methodology · Editorial policy · Report an error

Evidence review status: unreviewed

Legacy index-continuity record: the score and narrative are provisional and must not be represented as validated or human-approved.

Review flags: AWAITING_SEMANTIC_VALIDATION

Provisional Summary

Urolithin A is a postbiotic metabolite derived from ellagitannin-rich foods that activates mitophagy, the cellular process of removing damaged mitochondria. This compound enhances mitochondrial function, supports muscle health, and reduces age-related cellular decline.

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Screened PMID Records

Reported Benefits

Pending

Synergy Review

At a Glance

CategoryProbiotic & Fiber

GroupFermented/Probiotic

Public Score StatusProvisional Strong

Primary Keywordurolithin a benefits

Urolithin A close-up macro showing natural texture and detail — rich in antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, mitochondrial modulator

Urolithin A — botanical close-up

Reported Benefits (Provisional)

Enhances mitochondrial function and energy production, increasing cellular ATP levels by 30%. This combats fatigue and boosts vitality. - Supports muscle health by reducing age-related muscle decline, preserving muscle mass. This enhances physical performance. - Reduces inflammation by modulating immune responses, lowering inflammatory markers. This promotes overall health and longevity. - Improves cognitive function by enhancing brain mitochondrial efficiency, supporting memory and focus. This boosts mental clarity. - Supports cardiovascular health by improving endothelial function, reducing heart disease risk. This enhances circulatory health. - Promotes skin health by reducing oxidative stress, delaying signs of aging. This maintains youthful skin appearance. - Enhances metabolic health by improving lipid metabolism, aiding in weight management. This supports a healthy body composition.

Origin & History

Natural habitat

Urolithin A is a metabolite produced by the gut microbiota from ellagic acid, found in pomegranates and some berries. It is extracted through fermentation processes using specific bacterial strains.

“Urolithin A's discovery is recent, linked to the study of pomegranate's health benefits. Traditionally, pomegranates have been valued for their antioxidant properties.”Traditional Medicine

Research Narrative (Provisional)

Numerous RCTs have demonstrated Urolithin A's role in improving mitochondrial health and muscle function. In vitro studies support its anti-inflammatory effects. Meta-analyses are ongoing to further validate these findings.

Preparation & Dosage

Dosage guidance is withheld because the publication gate has not recorded adequate support for this profile.

Nutritional Profile

- Not a direct dietary component but a metabolite. - Derived from ellagitannins found in fruits like pomegranates. - Requires a healthy gut microbiome for production.

Reported Mechanism (Provisional)

Mechanism of Action

Urolithin A activates mitophagy by inducing the PINK1/Parkin pathway, promoting the selective removal of damaged mitochondria. It upregulates PGC-1α expression, enhancing mitochondrial biogenesis and increasing cellular ATP production. The compound also modulates NF-κB signaling to reduce inflammatory cytokine production.

Clinical Narrative (Provisional)

Human clinical trials with 500-1000mg daily doses show Urolithin A increases cellular ATP by up to 30% and improves muscle endurance markers. A 4-month randomized controlled trial in 60 elderly adults demonstrated significant improvements in mitochondrial gene expression and muscle function. However, most evidence comes from small-scale studies, and larger long-term trials are needed to confirm safety and efficacy across diverse populations.

Also Known As

3,8-dihydroxy-6H-dibenzo[b,d]pyran-6-oneUrolithin-AUAMitophagy activatorEllagitannin metabolitePomegranate metabolite

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These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

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