What are polyphenolic compounds?
Polyphenolic compounds are usually referred to as a diverse group of naturally occurring compounds containing multiple phenolic functionalities [1]. These compounds are commonly found in higher plants. They have synthetic, medicinal and industrial value.
What are polyphenolic compounds and what is their function in nature?
Natural polyphenols are secondary metabolites of plants, and many of them have been found in plant-based foods. Polyphenols have effects on the bitterness, astringency, color, flavor, odor and oxidative stability in food [1].
What group of chemicals do polyphenols belong to?
In the meantime, chemically, polyphenols are a group of natural compounds with phenolic structural features. It is a collective term for several sub-groups of phenolic compounds, however, use of the term “polyphenols” has been somewhat confusing and its implied chemical structures are often vague even to researchers.
What is meant by phenolic compounds?
Phenolic compounds are chemically defined as compounds containing hydroxylated aromatic rings, the hydroxy group being attached directly to the phenyl, substituted phenyl, or other aryl group.
Is turmeric a polyphenol?
Curcumin is a flavonoid polyphenol that is the active ingredient in the spice turmeric.
What are examples of phenols?
Phenols are common in nature; examples include tyrosine, one of the standard amino acids found in most proteins; epinephrine (adrenaline), a stimulant hormone produced by the adrenal medulla; serotonin, a neurotransmitter in the brain; and urushiol, an irritant secreted by poison ivy to prevent animals from eating its …
What are phenols give example?
phenol, any of a family of organic compounds characterized by a hydroxyl (―OH) group attached to a carbon atom that is part of an aromatic ring. For example, phenol itself is used (in low concentrations) as a disinfectant in household cleaners and in mouthwash.
Are phenolic compounds bad for you?
It has been suggested that phenolic compounds play a significant role in the prevention of many chronic diseases due to their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-carcinogenic properties (7).
What are the negative side effects of turmeric?
Turmeric and curcumin seem to be generally well tolerated. The most common side effects observed in clinical studies are gastrointestinal and include constipation, dyspepsia, diarrhoea, distension, gastroesophageal reflux, nausea, vomiting, yellow stool and stomach ache.
What are phenols used for?
Phenols are widely used in household products and as intermediates for industrial synthesis. For example, phenol itself is used (in low concentrations) as a disinfectant in household cleaners and in mouthwash. Phenol may have been the first surgical antiseptic.
Where can phenols be found?
Food Free and bound phenol compounds are found naturally in foods. High phenol foods include tomatoes, apples, peanuts, bananas, oranges, cocoa, red grapes, colored fruits (e.g., cranberries), and milk.
