Ellagic acid is a polyphenol present in plants as a secondary metabolite. Many edible plants contain ellagic acid and it therefore forms part of the human diet. Studies suggest that ellagic acid is bioavailable and may have physiological effects in humans. Ellagic acid is found in the bark and wood of many trees, but food sources include walnuts, strawberries and pomegranates. Chemically ellagic acid is a gallic acid derivative and this may explain the similar properties of the two chemicals. Physiologically ellagic acid may have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimutagenic, antiallergic, antiatherosclerotic, cardioprotective, hepatoprotective, nephroprotective, and neuroprotective and antiproliferative properties. A number of ellagic acid derivatives which are metabolised to possess methylation, methoxylation, glycosylation, and glucuronidation of its molecule are found in plants. Ellagic acid is therefore an important polyphenolic substance that may have a significant effect on the health of humans.
Eat Well, Stay Healthy, Protect Yourself
RdB
