Gallotannine

Gallotannin is a type of hydrolyzable tannin. Hydrolyzable tannins are a class of polyphenolic compounds that can be broken down into smaller molecules, specifically gallic acid and glucose, through hydrolysis. Gallotannins are primarily derived from plants and are characterized by the presence of gallic acid units esterified to a central glucose molecule. The number of gallic acid units can vary, leading to different molecular weights and properties within the gallotannin family.

These compounds are found in various plant parts, including leaves, bark, roots, and fruits. Notable sources include oak galls, sumac, and tara pods. Historically, gallotannins have been used in the tanning of leather, a process that stabilizes animal hides into a durable material. This tanning effect is due to their ability to bind with proteins.

In addition to leather tanning, gallotannins have found applications in the food and beverage industry, acting as clarifying agents and contributing to astringency in certain products. They are also investigated for their potential antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. The exact biological activities and industrial applications can depend on the specific structure and purity of the gallotannin.