Punicalagins
Also known as: Pomegranate Extract, Punica Granatum L., Pomegranate Juice
Overview
Punicalagins are large molecules (ellagitannins) found in Pomegranates and Pomegranate Juice. They themselves are very potent anti-oxidants, and they can be metabolized into other compounds (ellagic acid, urolithins) that themselves have anti-oxidant capabilities (although lesser). This large anti-oxidant value of punicalagins, about thrice that of red wine and green tea, is what brought Pomegranates to fame. That being said, the overall amount of punicalagins that get into the bloodstream after oral ingestion is quite small (6% is the highest noted and was in rats, sometimes human studies don't even notice punicalagins in the blood). The ellagic acid and urolithins still confer a lot of health benefits, but their anti-oxidant capabilities are on par with green tea and red wine if not a bit less potent. There is a very high variation between individuals, and like daidzein (one of the soy isoflavones) it may be genetically dependent on what intestinal microflora one possesses.
Benefits
Punicalagins are absorbed in the body and exert their effects primarily through their potent anti-oxidant properties. They can be metabolized into ellagic acid and urolithins, which also possess anti-oxidant capabilities. The anti-oxidant potential of punicalagins is significantly higher than that of other common sources like red wine and green tea, although the amount that enters the bloodstream after ingestion is relatively low. The variation in absorption and metabolism among individuals can influence the overall effectiveness of punicalagins.
How it works
Punicalagins confer several health benefits primarily due to their anti-oxidant properties. They are linked to improved cardiovascular health, potential reductions in prostate cancer risk, and may help in managing oxidative stress. The metabolites of punicalagins, such as ellagic acid and urolithins, also contribute to these health benefits, although their potency may be slightly less than that of punicalagins themselves.
Side effects
Anti-oxidant potential of the blood increases at an oral dose of 800mg Pomegranate Extract (318mg punicalagins), which may be a good starting point for a bioactive dose. The optimal dose is currently not known.
Dosage
There are no significant side effects reported for punicalagins when consumed in moderate amounts through pomegranate juice or extract. However, individuals with specific allergies to pomegranates or those on certain medications should consult a healthcare provider before use. As with any supplement, it is advisable to monitor for any adverse reactions.
FAQs
What are punicalagins?
Punicalagins are large molecules found in pomegranate juice that are potent anti-oxidants.
What health benefits do punicalagins provide?
Punicalagins are associated with cardiovascular health and may help reduce the risk of prostate cancer.
What is the recommended dosage for punicalagins?
A starting dose of 800mg of Pomegranate Extract (318mg punicalagins) is suggested to increase anti-oxidant potential.
Are there any side effects of punicalagins?
There are no significant side effects reported, but individuals with allergies or on certain medications should consult a healthcare provider.