Phyllodulcin

Phyllodulcin is a sweetener derived from the leaves of the Hydrangea macrophylla var. thunbergii plant. It is a natural sugar substitute that is approximately 1,000 times sweeter than sucrose, or table sugar.

History

Phyllodulcin was first discovered in Japan, where the Hydrangea macrophylla var. thunbergii plant is native. The plant has been used in traditional Japanese medicine for centuries, and the sweetener was first isolated from the plant in the early 20th century.

Production

Phyllodulcin is extracted from the leaves of the Hydrangea macrophylla var. thunbergii plant. The leaves are harvested, dried, and then processed to extract the sweetener. The extraction process involves soaking the leaves in water, then using a series of chemical reactions to isolate the phyllodulcin.

Uses

Phyllodulcin is used as a sweetener in a variety of products, including food, beverages, and pharmaceuticals. It is particularly popular in Japan, where it is used in traditional sweets and teas. Because it is so much sweeter than sugar, only a small amount of phyllodulcin is needed to sweeten a product.

Safety and Health Effects

Phyllodulcin is generally considered safe for consumption. However, like all sweeteners, it should be consumed in moderation. Some studies have suggested that phyllodulcin may have potential health benefits, such as anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic effects, but more research is needed to confirm these findings.

See Also

• Stevia
• Monk fruit
• Erythritol
• Xylitol