AC-11 is one of the ingredients in the best-selling nootropic stack “Alpha Brain” from Onnit Labs.
While most of the Alpha Brain nootropic ingredients are well documented and have a long history of use, less is known about AC-11 because it is a proprietary formulation.
According to the manufacturer, AC-11 (also known as Cat’s Claw) is a revolutionary advancement in human nutrition and DNA repair. The main ingredient of this herbal formula is derived from the inner bark of a vine known as Uncaria Tomentosa which is native to the Amazon rainforest of South America.
The supplement is considered to be helpful at repairing environmental-stress related DNA damage within your cells which can lead to improved cognitive function and brain health. Onnit Labs says that they have included AC-11 in the Alpha Brain stack to ensure that it is well balanced and provides a highly neuroprotective benefits.
AC-11 contains a new class of compounds known as Carboxyl Alkyl Esters (CAE). These are essentially organic acids characterized by the presence of at least one Carboxyl group.
They are considered to be proton donors and are also among the most common types of organic acids. Some common forms included formic acid (found in ants), acetic acid (gives vinegar its sour taste), and even citric acid (found in lemons and other citrus fruits).



- Supports the immune system
- Studied for DNA Repair
- Protects cells from some forms of damage
AC-11 Effects:
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Since the CAE is the primarily active ingredient in this supplement, it is important to understand that these substances are responsible for about 90 percent of the activity and benefits resulting from AC-11.
The exact mechanisms of action for this supplement are not completely understood at this time.
However, researchers believe that as the body is subjected to stress it might affect the integrity of the DNA. A good example of this is with overexposure to the sun.
When the structure of DNA is affected, this supplement actually helps to activate a number of key enzymes. These enzymes then become instrumental in the repair process.
In fact, there have been a number of peer reviewed scientific and clinical studies (conducted by third party laboratories and even university medical centers) which show that AC-11 does help to enhance the body’s natural ability to repair DNA.
AC-11 Benefits:
It is a fact of life that as we age, damage done to our DNA becomes more difficult to repair. The damaged DNA ‘code’ continues to replicate itself and thereby spreads the damage that can lead to things like cognitive decline, memory loss, wrinkles, sunspots, age spots, arthritis, diabetes, and other age-related issues.
Among the benefits of AC-11 is the ability to activate repair enzymes. This results in a boost to the processes in the both that naturally repair damaged DNA.
Another benefit is that of increased natural collagen III production in the skin. This is a form of collagen that is associated with soft, supple, and youthful-looking skin. Unfortunately, as we age the skin produces less and less of this important ingredient.
AC-11 can remedy this and normalize the expression of something known as NF-KB. This helps to regulate the body’s response to inflammation, programmed cell death, and even cellular growth. There is even evidence to suggest that this supplement might enhance the body’s immune system.
AC-11 Dosage:
The typically recommended dosage for AC-11 is between 350 and 700 mg when taken orally. In a single serving of Alpha Brain, you will find 350 mg which is sufficient for most people to experience the full scope of benefits.
This may also be used topically, by rubbing it in the skin. In this case, you should only open a single capsule and spread it to any desired areas. Do not use more than one capsule for topical remedies.
It should also be noted that different people will see different effects and much of this depends on your natural susceptibility to DNA damage as well as the environmental factors you are exposed to.
AC-11 Side Effects:
There are a number of interesting effects which can result from taking AC-11. Some people will experience what is known as temporary niacin flushing. This may lead to a feeling of warmth on the skin. Do not worry; this is not harmful and it does not last very long, either.
There is also the possibility of a slight cleansing of the bowels. This is due to the high concentration of the beneficial fruit-based organic acids contained within the supplement.
There may be a few possible allergic reactions as well. Of course this really will depend on the individual. Just make sure to use the product in accordance with the recommendations. When done in such a way, there are no real harmful side effects. There are also no known contraindications.
AC-11 Review:
AC-11 is one of the most interesting and unique supplements currently on the market. The benefits are primarily general health such as immune boosting, anti-inflammation, and DNA repair. Of course, there is also a growing body of evidence which suggests that it may even have anti-aging and/or life extension benefits.
This is definitely something to consider adding to your routine, especially considering the fact that it is very safe and does not have any know drug interactions or contraindications. Since AC-11 is a proprietary ingredient, you cannot purchase it on its own but you will find it in Alpha Brain. You can buy Alpha Brain from the Onnit Lab’s website for $34.95 per bottle.
- Mentor JM, Etemadi A, Patta AM, Scheinfeld N. Topical AC-11 abates actinic keratoses and early squamous cell cancers in hairless mice exposed to Ultraviolet A (UVA) radiation. Dermatol Online J. 2015
- Pero RW, Lund H. Dietary quinic acid supplied as the nutritional supplement AIO + AC-11® leads to induction of micromolar levels of nicotinamide and tryptophan in the urine. Phytother Res. 2011
Article last updated on: March 28th, 2018 by Nootriment
4 Comments
Hi i am looking for something to kind of ward off Dementia ,i have 2 members of my family had /have this do you think this can help ,as i am under a lot of stress .
Many Thanks .
Margaret.
There are a number of supplements you can take and here is a list starting with selenium.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19374888
One ibuprofen a day will help too:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11383549
Alpha lipoic acid:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17982894
Acetyl l carnitine:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/1944900
Acety l carnitine and alpha lipoic acid should be combined:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20414966
What’s the main difference between AC-11 and Cat’s Claw?
Hi Kyle,
Here is the difference according to Optigenex Inc:
“AC-11® differs from all other Uncaria tomentosa products, some of which are sold under the common name “cat’s claw,” in that its molecular composition is distinct by virtue of the Optigenex patented process. AC-11® is standardized, pure, water-soluble and micro-filtered to contain only low weight molecules (<10,000 Daltons). AC-11® is relatively alkaloid free (<0.05%) and is the only product available anywhere containing a patented class of CAE actives shown by extensive research to have healthy aging and natural DNA repair enhancement properties. No other Uncaria tomentosa product can make these claims. AC-11® moreover has been studied for efficacy and safety for over ten years." http://www.optigenex.com/ac11.htm