Tannins are high molecular weight compounds derived from polyhydric phenols.The components have the ability to precipitate proteins, and alkaloids, endowed with astringent effect.
Tannins are so named because of its properties.They are able to "tan" the skin, making it watertight.Previously, this was used oak bark.The process in this connection has become known as "tanning" as the substances themselves - tanning.The components have low toxicity.
Note that Tannin (tannic acid) was first obtained in 1797.In its pure form it is made in 1815.
Tannins are widely used as an astringent, antibacterial agents in diseases of the digestive system.In addition, the components are used in inflammatory diseases of the oral cavity (as a rinse), ulcers and other lesions.
Antiinflammatory Activity tannins associated with their ability to interact with proteins.As a result, formed on the protective mucous plenochka preventing further spread of inflammation.Tannins effective when applied topically as a styptic.
Tannins in large enough quantities present in tea.Some components, as mentioned above, has hemostatic, bactericidal and anti-inflammatory properties.(Sleeps welding, for example, is often used in diseases of the eye).Certain polyphenols (catechins) have the properties of a P-vitamin.They help to improve digestion, strengthen the walls of blood vessels of all sizes, reducing their permeability.It is worth noting that the catechins has the full set of green tea.In the black of the polyphenols is much smaller.
Tannins are actively interacting with an acidic medium and iron.For example, when brewing tea in an iron container turns brown and muddy brew.However, the medium clarifies Sour tea (you can see this effect by adding a lemon).The more the tannins in tea, the more tart and astringent to the taste.To soften the taste by adding milk.
is best tannins are dissolved in hot water (which is why tea is brewed in boiling water).The cooled welding often cloudy - it is one of the properties of polyphenols.If it does not, this indicates insufficient quantity of tannins in the feedstock.Clouded brew can be heated - then it will become clear again.
In medicine widely used properties of tannins.It is known that polyphenols in tea, for example, are powerful antioxidants.In this regard, they are often used in cases of poisoning.This is due to their properties of forming a secure connection with various harmful proteins, acids, alkaloids, metals, and then remove them from the body.
In nature, many plants contain tannins.Most of these compounds in dicots.Tannins are rich in algae, fungi, ferns, mosses.Present tannins and pine, willow, beech.
Sumac tanning - representative of the family sumach - also contains polyphenolic compounds.It should be noted that the greatest value are the young shoots and leaves are collected prior to the formation of green fruit.A decoction of raw materials prescribed for vomiting, nausea, coughing up blood.Infusions are widely used for inflammation in the mouth, larynx, pharynx, nose.In addition, the tannin from sumac used for burn patients, wounds as an astringent, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory agent.The efficiency of decoctions, infusions in the initial phase of diabetes.
However, powdered sumac dried fruits in the Caucasus was used as tabasco to meat and dishes from it.
