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AC-11 is a plant extract derived from the inner bark of Uncaria tomentosa (cat’s claw), a vine native to the Amazon rainforest. It has gained significant attention for its potential ability to support the body’s natural DNA repair processes, reduce inflammation, and improve skin quality — making it a popular ingredient in supplements and skincare products marketed for anti-ageing.
Unlike many herbal extracts, AC-11 has been studied in multiple laboratory and clinical settings, with research suggesting it may help the body repair DNA damage caused by sun exposure, pollution, and oxidative stress. Because unresolved DNA damage contributes to premature ageing, immune weakness, and tissue breakdown, AC-11 is often promoted as a “cellular health” ingredient rather than a simple antioxidant.
This guide explains what AC-11 actually is, where it comes from, how it may work in the body, and what the current evidence really shows.
AC-11 is a plant extract from Uncaria tomentosa clinically shown to support the body’s natural DNA repair processes.
It works by helping the body fix damage caused by UV exposure, oxidative stress, and everyday environmental factors linked to ageing.
AC-11 is supported by multiple peer-reviewed studies demonstrating benefits for immune function, skin health, and cellular resilience.
Unlike many anti-ageing ingredients, AC-11 works at a cellular level rather than only addressing surface signs of ageing.
AC-11 may help reduce visible skin damage, improve collagen support, and promote a healthier inflammatory response.
Both ingestible supplements and topical skincare formulas containing AC-11 can provide benefits, depending on your skincare or wellness goals.
AC-11 is derived from Uncaria tomentosa, a woody vine long used in traditional Amazonian medicine. Indigenous communities used preparations of the plant for general healing, inflammatory conditions, and immune support.
Modern researchers later isolated a specific class of molecules from the vine called carboxy alkyl esters (CAEs) — the active components that form the basis of AC-11. The extract used today is:
Purified and standardised, meaning the CAE content is controlled and consistent
Water-soluble, making it easier for the body to absorb
Patented, because the extraction method is unique and differs from traditional cat’s claw supplements
While cat’s claw is widely available as a herbal supplement, AC-11 is a more refined, highly specific extract intended to deliver targeted biological effects rather than broad herbal activity.
AC-11 is a branded, standardised botanical extract that contains a set concentration of CAEs — the compounds believed to be responsible for its DNA-supporting effects.
Key differences between AC-11 and regular cat’s claw:
Highly purified
Contains a consistent CAE profile
Backed by peer-reviewed research
Used in anti-ageing supplements, skincare, and immune-support formulas
Designed to influence cellular repair pathways
Contains many different compounds
Can vary widely in strength and purity
Typically used for inflammation or immune modulation
Not clinically validated for DNA repair
This distinction matters: most searches for ac-11, ac11 benefits, and ac-11 side effects relate specifically to the purified extract, not generic cat’s claw.
One of the main reasons AC-11 became popular is its reported ability to support the body’s natural DNA repair processes.
DNA in every cell is constantly damaged by:
UV radiation
Pollution
Oxidative stress
Natural ageing
Poor lifestyle habits
The body repairs most of this damage on its own, but efficiency decreases with age.
Studies suggest AC-11 may:
Lab and clinical studies indicate AC-11 can enhance the body’s ability to identify and repair damaged DNA segments, helping cells maintain healthier function over time.
By decreasing oxidative stress markers, AC-11 may protect cells from free-radical-related ageing, including visible skin ageing.
Research shows AC-11 may help immune cells function more effectively, particularly when exposed to environmental stressors.
These actions do not mean AC-11 prevents disease, but they may contribute to healthier ageing at a cellular level.
Your body is made of trillions of cells. Each contains DNA—your genetic blueprint. As cells divide, they copy DNA to create new cells. When DNA damage builds up, cells become less effective, age faster, and function poorly.
AC-11’s value lies in helping the body reduce the accumulation of unrepaired DNA damage, supporting healthier cell cycles over time.
DNA resembles a ladder twisted into a double helix. Its four base pairs (A-T and C-G) store your genetic information.
Damage to these base pairs can occur through:
Sun exposure
Pollution
Stress
Poor nutrition
Normal ageing
Antioxidants help protect DNA, but they do not repair it. AC-11 is unique because its CAEs appear to support actual repair pathways, not just protection.
As we age, our natural DNA repair slows down. Free radicals (from UV light, toxins, poor diet, and stress) accumulate, causing:
Fine lines and wrinkles
Uneven pigmentation
Slower healing
Immune system weakness
Increased inflammation
AC-11 may help slow this process by helping cells correct damage more efficiently—contributing to healthier skin, better tissue repair, and improved vitality.
Every time a cell divides, it copies existing DNA—including any damage. If this damage isn’t corrected first, it accumulates. Over time, this leads to cellular ageing.
AC-11 does not create new DNA or alter genes. Instead, studies suggest it:
Enhances the activity of natural DNA repair enzymes
Reduces the number of unrepaired lesions
Helps cells divide with fewer errors
This may contribute to healthier skin, better immunity, and overall ageing support.
AC-11 may help white blood cells maintain efficiency under stress—important for immunity and recovery.
Topical or oral AC-11 has shown improvements in:
UV damage
Fine lines
Skin texture
Pigmentation irregularities
This is why AC-11 is increasingly used in skincare formulations.
By supporting collagen stability and reducing oxidative stress, AC-11 may help maintain healthier connective tissues.
Chronic inflammation accelerates ageing. AC-11 has been studied for its potential to balance inflammatory responses without suppressing the immune system.
Users often report improved energy, faster recovery from minor stressors, and better skin appearance—likely due to healthier cellular function.
AC-11 is a plant-derived extract from Uncaria tomentosa designed to support the body’s natural DNA repair processes. It’s commonly used for anti-ageing benefits, immune support, skin rejuvenation, and protection from environmental damage such as UV exposure and pollution.
Yes. More than 40 peer-reviewed studies have examined AC-11’s effects on DNA repair, immune function, and UV damage. While results vary from person to person, the science shows clear biological activity that supports cellular health and resilience.
AC-11 does not stop ageing, but it can help reduce the impact of DNA damage that contributes to visible ageing and reduced cellular function. Its effects are best described as supporting healthier ageing by improving the body’s natural repair mechanisms.
Some people notice improvements in skin texture and energy levels within 4–8 weeks. More significant benefits, such as better collagen support or clearer skin tone, typically appear after consistent use for 2–3 months.
AC-11 is generally considered safe when used at recommended doses. Clinical studies report very few side effects. However, it may not be suitable for pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, people with autoimmune conditions, or those taking immunosuppressive medications. Consultation with a doctor is recommended.
Yes. AC-11 pairs well with antioxidants, collagen supplements, retinol, vitamin C serums, and other anti-ageing products. It works internally and topically, so it can complement a wide range of skincare and wellness routines.
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