Tannin
Tannin
Tannin (pronunciation: /ˈtænɪn/) is a class of astringent, polyphenolic biomolecules that bind to and precipitate proteins and various other organic compounds including amino acids and alkaloids.
Etymology
The word tannin is derived from the Medieval Latin word tannāre, which means "to convert into leather". This is due to the use of tannins in tanning animal hides.
Types of Tannins
There are three major types of tannins:
- Hydrolyzable tannins: These are easily hydrolyzed by acids or bases into their component sugars and phenolic acids.
- Condensed tannins: Also known as proanthocyanidins, these are not easily hydrolyzed.
- Phlorotannins: These are found in brown algae.
Uses
Tannins have a wide range of uses in both the medical and industrial sectors. In medicine, they are used for their astringent properties, which can help in the treatment of inflammation and diarrhea. In industry, they are used in the tanning of leather, in the clarification of wine and beer, and as a mordant in dyeing.
Related Terms
- Astringent: A substance that tightens or constricts body tissues.
- Polyphenol: A type of chemical that may reduce the risk of heart disease and cancer.
- Biomolecule: A molecule that is involved in the maintenance and metabolic processes of living organisms.
- Protein: A molecule composed of amino acids that is necessary for the body to build and repair body tissue.
- Amino acid: A compound that is needed by the body to build and repair body tissue.
- Alkaloid: A class of naturally occurring organic compounds that mostly contain basic nitrogen atoms.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Tannin
- Wikipedia's article - Tannin
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