Description

Anthocyanins are bioflavonoids that function as red, purple, and blue pigment in many fruits, vegetables, cereal grains, and flowers. They occur in nearly all plants in their leaves, stems, and roots but are most commonly found in fruits and flowers.

Anthocyanins are known primarily for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. As antioxidants, anthocyanins help rid the body of the free radicals that cause oxidative damage in the body. Studies have shown that anthocyanins have a wide range of health benefits including the prevention and treatment of the following conditions: cancer, coronary heart disease, and circulatory conditions such as gout. They are also taken to treat bladder infections and urinary tract infections, as well as to improve vision. Anthocyanins have been used as a natural food coloring in products such as beverages, fruit fillings, and dairy products.

The kinds of anthocyanins

Scientists have identified more than 500 different anthocyanins. They are the largest group of water-soluble pigments in the plant kingdom and belong to the family of compounds known as flavonoids.

Scientists have identified several hundred different anthocyanins, including pelargonidin, malvidin, delphinidin, peonidin, and cyanidin, all attached to a sugar molecule. Anthocyanidins are similar to anthocyanins but they do not have a sugar molecule.

Biological activity

Anthocyanins have a wide range of biological activities including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and anti-cancer activities.

Sources of Anthocyanins

Rich sources of anthocyanins include red and purple fruits such blueberries, blackberries, acai berries, bilberries, cranberries, cherries, raspberries, and purple grapes. Anthocyanins can also be found in eggplant, red cabbage, and red wine.

Benefits of Anthocyanins

>Antioxidant,

>Anti-inflammatory,

>Antimicrobial

>Anti-cancer

>Blood pressure

>Cholesterol and blood lipids

>Parkinson's disease

There are Anthocyanin Series available from Nutragreen biotechnology such as