Undecylenic acid

Undecylenic / Undecenoic Acid is an organic unsaturated fatty acid derived from natural castor oil. It is the common name of the 10-undecenoic acid (CH2CH(CH2)8COOH). It is used in the manufacture of pharmaceuticals, cosmetics and perfumery including anti-dandruff shampoos, anti-microbial powders and as a musk in perfumes and aromas. Undecylenic acid is produced by cracking of Castor oil under pressure.

Medicinal uses
Undecylenic acid is a natural fungicide and is FDA approved in over-the-counter medications for skin disorders or problems. It is the active ingredient in medications for skin infections, and relieves itching, burning, and irritation. For example, it is used against fungal skin infections such as athlete's foot, ringworm, Candida albicans. It is also used in the treatment of psoriasis.

Undecylenic acid is also proven to have anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties that are effective on viral skin infections such as the herpes simplex virus.

Products That Contain Undecylenic Acid
Given in alphabetical order. Percentage content of Undecylenic Acid given in parenthesis. Concentrations greater than 10% are meant for application to nails and may be too strong for skin application (i.e. dilution may be necessary).


 * DermaZinc Cream (% not listed)
 * Elon Dual Defense Anti-Fungal (25%)
 * FungiCure Anti-fungal Liquid, extra strength (10%)
 * Fungi Nail Anti-fungal Solution (25%)
 * Fungus-No-More (25%)
 * Tineacide Antifungal Cream (10%)