Punicalagin

Punicalagin is a type of ellagitannin, a large group of polyphenols found in certain types of fruits and nuts. It is most notably found in pomegranates, from which it derives its name (Punica is the genus name for the pomegranate). Punicalagin is the largest molecule found intact in rat plasma after oral ingestion and health effects have been attributed to its antioxidant activity.

Chemical Structure

Punicalagin is a large polyphenol compound. It is a type of tannin and is considered the largest of the hydrolyzable tannins. Its structure includes a pair of gallic acid groups and a pair of glucose molecules, all connected by a series of ester and glycosidic bonds.

Health Benefits

Punicalagin is known for its high antioxidant activity and is believed to be the primary component responsible for the antioxidant and health benefits associated with pomegranates. It has been shown to have anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, and anti-cancer properties in various research studies. It is also thought to have potential benefits for cardiovascular health, including reducing LDL cholesterol levels and lowering blood pressure.

Food Sources

The primary food source of punicalagin is the pomegranate. It is found in both the juice and the peel of the fruit, but is particularly concentrated in the peel. Other sources of punicalagin include certain types of nuts and berries, including walnuts and raspberries.

See Also

• Polyphenol
• Antioxidant
• Pomegranate