Ursane-type triterpenoids, such as ursolic acid and corosolic acid, have attracted scientific interest for their potential therapeutic effects in inflammatory bowel diseases, including colitis. Several preclinical studies, primarily in animal models, have demonstrated that ursane-type triterpenoids can ameliorate symptoms of colitis. These compounds exert anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokines (such as TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β), reducing oxidative stress, and modulating key signaling pathways like NF-κB and MAPK. For example, Phytotherapy Research (2017) reported that ursolic acid reduced colon inflammation and tissue damage in a mouse model of dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis. Other studies have shown that these triterpenoids can help maintain intestinal barrier integrity and reduce infiltration of immune cells into colon tissue.

However, most of the current evidence is limited to cell culture and animal studies; robust human clinical trials are lacking as of 2024. The use of ursane-type triterpenoids for colitis is therefore supported by promising but preliminary scientific evidence. They are not part of traditional therapies specifically for colitis, though some plants containing these compounds have been used in folk medicine for general inflammation. Further research, particularly well-designed clinical trials, is necessary to confirm their safety and efficacy in human colitis.