Phenols - Action and Properties

Phenols are a group of organic chemicals that occur naturally in many plants, fruits, vegetables and some fungi. They are known for their potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, making them key health-supporting ingredients. Phenols play an important role in protecting the body from oxidative stress, inflammatory processes and various chronic diseases. In this article, we will take a closer look at what phenols are, their properties and how they can affect our health.

What Are Phenols?

Phenols are a complex group of chemical compounds containing a hydroxyl group (-OH) bonded directly to an aromatic (benzene) ring. Due to their structure, phenols exhibit strong antioxidant properties. In nature, phenols have a protective function for plants, protecting them from the harmful effects of UV rays, microbes and insects.

Phenols are common compounds in many plant-based foods, such as fruits (e.g., berries, grapes), vegetables, tea, coffee and olive oil, as well as in certain fungi, such as medicinal mushrooms such as Coriolus versicolor.

Phenols - Chemical Composition

Phenols are a diverse group of compounds that include several subclasses, including:

• Phenolic acids: Gallic acid, coffee acid, ferulic acid.
• Flavonoids: Quercetin, rutin, catechins.
• Lignans: Compounds present in flax seeds and some vegetables.
• Stilbeny: Such as resveratrol, which is found in grapes and red wine.

Each of these subgroups of phenols has specific health-promoting properties, supporting various body systems, especially the cardiovascular system, immune system and protection against oxidative stress.

Phenols - Action

Antioxidant Activity

Phenols are primarily known for their powerful antioxidant properties. Antioxidants neutralize free radicals - reactive molecules that damage cells and accelerate the aging process and the development of chronic diseases such as atherosclerosis, heart disease, diabetes and cancer. Phenols, acting as "scavengers" of free radicals, help protect cells from oxidative stress, which promotes health at the cellular level.

Anti-inflammatory Properties

Phenols exhibit potent anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory mediators such as cytokines, which play a key role in the development of chronic inflammation. Chronic inflammation is one of the main contributors to the development of many diseases, such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes and some cancers. Thanks to their properties, phenols can be helpful in alleviating inflammation and supporting immune system health.

Antimicrobial Properties

Phenols also exhibit antimicrobial activity, meaning that they can inhibit the growth and development of bacteria, viruses and fungi. Some phenols, such as gallic acid and catechins, act as natural antibacterial and antifungal agents. This makes them used both in natural medicine and in the cosmetic industry to produce preparations that promote skin health and fight infections.

Support for the Circulatory System

Phenols, especially flavonoids, play a key role in improving cardiovascular health. Studies show that regular consumption of phenolic-rich foods can lower blood pressure, improve blood vessel elasticity and reduce the risk of atherosclerosis. Phenols can also support a healthy lipid profile, lowering LDL cholesterol and protecting blood vessels from the build-up of atherosclerotic plaques.

Anticancer Activity

Thanks to their powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, phenols can help the body fight the development of cancer. Compounds such as resveratrol (found in grapes) and quercetin (found in onions, apples and tea) are being intensively studied for their anticancer potential. Studies suggest that phenols can inhibit the growth of cancer cells, stimulate apoptosis (natural cell death) and prevent metastasis.

Application of Phenols in Medicine and Supplementation

Phenols are now widely used both in natural medicine and in the form of dietary supplements. Phenol-rich supplements, such as extracts from fruits, vegetables, and medicinal mushrooms (e.g. Coriolus versicolor, Reishi), are available as capsules, powders and liquids. Phenols in these supplements support the health of the immune system, protect against oxidative stress, and support the prevention of cardiovascular disease.

On offer ENCANN you can find products such as Coriolus Wrośniak Multicolored, which contains numerous bioactive compounds, including phenols, that support the body's health and improve immunity

Phenols - Summary

Phenols are a group of extremely valuable chemical compounds with a broad spectrum of activity. Their potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and anticancer properties make them an indispensable part of a healthy diet and preventive health care. Regular consumption of phenolic-rich foods, such as fruits, vegetables, tea and medicinal mushrooms, can provide numerous health benefits, including protection against chronic diseases and support for the immune system.

Dietary supplements containing phenols, such as Coriolus Wrośniak Pink-colored. from ENCANN, can provide natural support for the body, helping to protect against oxidative stress and improve overall health.

Source: PubMed (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/); Google Scholar (https://scholar.google.com/); National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI); ResearchGate (https://www.researchgate.net/)

Statements given refer to research on adaptogens Hericium Erinaceus, Ganoderma Lucidum, Cordyceps Militaris, Ashwagandha and Coriolus Versicolor not over Encann® brand products. These are not claims regarding the medicinal properties of the product offered. In accordance with European Parliament Regulation 1924/2006, verifiable scientific evidence regarding studies on the use of the fungus is presented on this page. Hedgehog soplolly- one of the components of the offered product.