Tannins are a broad class of compounds that are present in tea as antioxidants that can help fight cavities, and diarrhea, and can even prevent severe health issues like heart diseases and cancer.

Basically, tannins are plant compounds classified as polyphenols (phenolics or phenolic compounds) that have a bitter, astringent taste. 

According to the Oxford Dictionary, “Tannin is a yellowish or brownish bitter-tasting organic substance present in some galls, barks, and other plant tissues, consisting of derivatives of gallic acid.”

 

     Sources of Tannins

Tea is the richest source of tannins. Just realize the bitter taste and dry feeling you get after sipping tea? That’s because of the high concentrations of tannins in the tea leaves. It is to be noted that tea is not the only source of tannins as coffee, red wine, grapes, apple juice, and chickpeas also have some levels of tannins.

 

     What are the Components of Tannins

Tannin, similar to caffeine, represents the main active components of tea and coffee. Coffee contains 1.2% caffeine and 4.6% tannic acid (Tannin) while tea has 2.7% caffeine and 11.2% tannic acid.

 

     What are the Uses of Tannins

There are some uses of tannins in pharmacy. Tannins’ can be used as anticancer, virucides, antioxidants, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory. Tannins can also be helpful for antidiabetics, wound healing, cardiovascular protection, and antidiarrheals.

 

     Benefits of Tannins

Tannin is a rich plant extract that has a huge range of health benefits. Also, Tannins have natural anti-microbial properties that help reduce acne breakouts and blemishes. 

Tannins contain anti-inflammatory properties that can help minimize redness and inflammatory properties that can help minimize redness and inflammation. For those who wish to reduce cell damage, tannins act as an antioxidant against free radicals.

 

     What are the Effects of Tannins

If taken in large amounts, tannic acid can cause side effects such as stomach irritation, nausea, vomiting, and liver damage. High tannin consumption can also increase the chance of developing nose or throat cancer.

People who are extremely sensitive to their serotonin levels might get a migraine. Tannins can bind to proteins and care in food, which can minimize digestive tissue in sensitive individuals, nausea, or stomach ache.