Ellagic Acid
Ellagic Acid is a naturally occurring polyphenolic compound found in numerous fruits, nuts, and vegetables such as pomegranates, strawberries, raspberries, walnuts, and cranberries. It is a potent antioxidant known for its ability to scavenge free radicals and chelate metal ions. Due to its significant anti-inflammatory, anti-carcinogenic, and anti-viral properties, Ellagic Acid has gained extensive interest in pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, cosmetic, and food industries. It appears as a yellow to light brown crystalline powder, insoluble in water but soluble in organic solvents like ethanol and DMSO.
Ellagic Acid Uses
Primary Uses
- Pharmaceuticals & Nutraceuticals
- Utilized as an active ingredient for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
- Employed in formulations aimed at cancer prevention and as adjunct therapy due to its anti-proliferative properties.
- Investigated for potential antiviral applications including HIV and herpes simplex viruses.
- Used in dietary supplements for general health and immune support.
- Cosmetics & Personal Care
- Incorporated in anti-aging skin care products for its ability to protect skin from oxidative damage and UV-induced aging.
- Used in formulations targeting hyperpigmentation and skin brightening due to its melanin synthesis inhibition.
- Acts as an anti-inflammatory agent soothing irritated or sensitive skin.
- Food Industry
- Applied as a natural antioxidant additive in food preservation to extend shelf life and prevent lipid peroxidation.
- Used as a functional ingredient in health foods, beverages, and supplements.
- Research & Analytical Uses
- Used in biochemical research to study antioxidant mechanisms and as a standard compound in polyphenol analysis.
Secondary Uses
- Agriculture
- Explored as a natural plant growth regulator and for potential pest resistance due to its antimicrobial properties.
- Biomedical Research
Investigated in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine for its cell-protective effects.
- Basic Identification Attributes
- Chemical Name (IUPAC): 2,3,7,8-Tetrahydroxy-[1]benzopyrano[5,4,3-cde][1]benzopyran-5,10-dione
- Common/Trade Name: Ellagic Acid
- CAS Number: 476-66-4
- HS Code: 2934.99.99
- Molecular Formula: C₁₄H₆O₈
- Synonyms:
- 4,4',5,5',6,6'-Hexahydroxydiphenic acid dilactone
- 2,3,7,8-Tetrahydroxychromeno[5,4,3-cde]chromene-5,10-dione
- Physical & Chemical Properties
- Physical State: Crystalline powder
- Color & Odor: Yellow to light brown; odorless
- Melting Point: Approximately 300°C (decomposes)
- Solubility: Insoluble in water; soluble in ethanol, methanol, DMSO, and alkaline solutions
- Stability: Stable under normal conditions; sensitive to strong acids and bases
- Safety & Hazard Attributes
- Hazard Class (GHS): Not classified as hazardous
- Toxicity: Low toxicity; generally safe in topical and oral use at recommended doses
- Exposure Limits: Not established
- Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions: Store in cool, dry, dark place in tightly sealed containers
- Container Type: Glass or plastic bottles with airtight caps
- Shelf Life: 2–3 years if stored properly
- Handling Precautions: Avoid dust inhalation and prolonged skin contact
- Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- Approved as a dietary supplement ingredient in many regions
- Compliant with food safety and cosmetic regulations globally
- Environmental & Health Impact
- Biodegradability: Biodegradable under environmental conditions
- Ecotoxicity: Low
- Bioaccumulation: Not expected
Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity: Not classified as carcinogenic or mutagenic
Safety Handling Precautions
PPE Required:
- Dust mask or respirator (for powder handling)
- Safety goggles
- Gloves (nitrile or latex)
- Protective clothing or lab coat
Handling Guidelines:
- Handle in well-ventilated areas
- Avoid dust generation and inhalation
- Avoid prolonged skin contact
- Use closed systems or local exhaust ventilation when available
Storage Measures:
- Keep container tightly closed
- Store away from strong oxidizers and bases
- Protect from light and moisture
Hygiene Practices:
- Wash hands after handling
- Do not eat, drink, or smoke in handling areas
- Clean spills promptly to avoid dust spread
First Aid Measures
- Inhalation: Move to fresh air; seek medical attention if irritation persists
- Skin Contact: Wash thoroughly with soap and water; seek medical attention if irritation develops
- Eye Contact: Rinse with plenty of water for 15 minutes; seek medical advice if irritation persists
- Ingestion: Rinse mouth; not expected to be toxic, but seek medical attention if large amounts ingested
Firefighting Measures
- Fire Hazards: Non-flammable
- Extinguishing Media: Water spray, foam, dry chemical, or carbon dioxide
- Special Precautions: Use standard protective equipment
Decomposition Products: May emit carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and other organic vapors upon decomposition

Preservatives(food)
Flavor Enhancers
Acidulants
Sweeteners
Antioxidants
Colorants(food)
Nutraceutical Ingredients (food)
Nutrient Supplements
Emulsifiers
Collectors
Dust Suppressants
Explosives and Blasting Agents
Flocculants and Coagulants
Frothers
Leaching Agents
pH Modifiers
Precious Metal Extraction Agents
Antioxidants(plastic)
Colorants (Pigments, Dyes)
Fillers and Reinforcements
Flame Retardants
Monomers
Plasticizers
Polymerization Initiators
Stabilizers (UV, Heat)
Antifoaming Agents
Chelating Agents
Coagulants and Flocculants
Corrosion Inhibitors
Disinfectants and Biocides
Oxidizing Agents
pH Adjusters
Scale Inhibitors( water)
Antioxidants(cosmetic)
Emollients
Fragrances and Essential Oils
Humectants
Preservatives
Surfactants(cosmetic)
Thickeners
UV Filters
Fertilizers
Soil Conditioners
Plant Growth Regulators
Animal Feed Additives
Biostimulants
Pesticides (Herbicides, Insecticides, Fungicides)
Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs)
Excipients
Solvents(pharmaceutical)
Antibiotics
Antiseptics and Disinfectants
Vaccine Adjuvants
Nutraceutical Ingredients (pharmaceutical)
Analgesics & Antipyretics
Analytical Reagents
Solvents(lab)
Chromatography Chemicals
Spectroscopy Reagents
microbiology-and-cell-culture-reagents
Molecular Biology Reagents
Biochemical Reagents
Inorganic and Organic Standards
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Specialty Laboratory Chemicals(Special Laboratory Equipment)
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Surfactants(oil)
Drilling Fluids
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Sealants and Adhesives
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Builders
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Fresh Herbs
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