Ellagic acid is a phytochemical found in fruits and nuts, which functions as an antioxidant. Antioxidants are compounds that prevent damage to cells in your body that lead to degenerative diseases like heart disease and cancer. Ellagic acid is found naturally in pomegranates, blackberries, raspberries, cranberries, pecans and walnuts. The American Cancer Society recognizes that ellagic acid may be beneficial to health, although they state that more research in humans is needed. Cancer and other health conditions should always be treated under the supervision of a physician.
May Prevent Cancer
According to the American Cancer Society, animal studies show that ellagic acid slows tumor growth associated with some types of carcinogens. A study published in the January/February 2001 issue of "Anticancer Research" found that ellagic acid induces death of abnormal cells that may lead to cancer. Ellagic acid also reduces estrogen's effect in the promotion of breast cancer. Though research is promising regarding ellagic acid's efficacy in treating cancer in animals, more human research is needed.
Reduces Atherosclerosis
Atherosclerosis, or hardening of the arteries as a result of plaque buildup, increases the risk of developing heart disease. According to a study published in 2008 in "The British Journal of Nutrition," ellagic acid in walnut extract reduces inflammation responses in blood vessels, which in turn reduces buildup of plaque.
Promotes Liver Health
Oxidative stress, which occurs during normal energy metabolism, creates highly reactive free radicals that can damage organs and tissues. A study published in the April 2010 issue of "Biomedicine and Pharmacotherapy" found that ellagic acid protects liver cells from oxidative stress by reacting with free radicals before they can cause damage. Ellagic acid may alter the metabolism of certain medications or other dietary supplements, so it is important to consult with your healthcare provider before taking ellagic acid.
References
- American Cancer Society: Ellagic Acid
- PubMed.gov: Ellagic acid protects hepatocytes from damage by inhibiting mitochondrial production of reactive oxygen species
- PubMed.gov: IGF-II down regulation associated cell cycle arrest in colon cancer cells exposed to phenolic antioxidant ellagic acid
- UK PubMed Central: Walnut extract (Juglans regia L.) and its component ellagic acid exhibit anti-inflammatory activity in human aorta endothelial cells and osteoblastic activity in the cell line KS483
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