Ellagic Acid

Name: Ellagic Acid
Synonym: 2,3,7,8-Tetrahydroxy-chromeno[5,4,3-cde]chromene-5,10-dione
CAS: 476-66-4
Molecular Formula: C14H6O8
Molecular Weight: 302.197
Molecular Structure:
Botanical Source: pomegranates
Major Functions:
Ellagic acid has antiproliferative and antioxidant properties in a number of in vitro and small-animal models. The antiproliferative properties of ellagic acid are due to its ability to directly inhibit the DNA binding of certain carcinogens, including nitrosamines and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. As with other polyphenol antioxidants, ellagic acid has a chemoprotective effect in cellular models by reducing oxidative stress.
These properties have generated interest in potential human health benefits from the consumption of ellagic acid. However, very little study of these proposed benefits has been reported as of 2008. A small randomized controlled trial involving 19 patients with carotid artery stenosis found that pomegranate juice, which is high in ellagic acid, appeared to reduce blood pressure and carotid artery wall thickness.