Phytochemical: |
Gallic acid
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| Synonyms: | 3,4,5-Trihydroxybenzoic acid
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| Properties: | Gallic acid seems to have anti-fungal and anti-viral properties. Gallic acid acts as a antioxidant and helps to protect our cells against oxidative damage. Gallic acid was found to show cytotoxicity against cancer cells, without harming healthy cells. Gallic acid is used a remote astringent in cases of internal haemorrhage. Gallic acid is also used to treat albuminuria and diabetes. Some ointment to treat psoriasis and external haemorrhoids contain gallic acid.
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| Facts about Gallic acid: | Gallic acid is also used for making dyes and inks. Gallic acid does not combine with protein and has therefore no astringent taste.
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| Description: | Pure gallic acid is a colourless crystalline organic powder. Gallic acid occurs as a free molecule or as part of a tannin molecule.
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| Distribution: | Gallic acid is found in almost all plants. Plants known for their high gallic acid content include gallnuts, grapes, tea, hops and oak bark.
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