What is a phenol?

phenol is one of a number of chemically active compounds found throughout nature, especially in plants. Their molecules include a hydroxyl functional group (OH) associated with a aromatic compound - molecules that contain at least one circle of carbon atoms. Phenols show a wide range of properties; Some are announced by their health benefits, while others are deadly poisons. Some have important industrial uses such as drugs or food ingredients. The word fenol may also apply to carbolic acid (C _{6 h 5 OH), the simplest of this group of chemicals. They are also separated from alcohols by their higher acidity, solubility and boiling points. Most of them are colorless, although some are clearly colored and play an important role in plant pigmentation. They are usually fixed or liquid at the room temperature.}

There are hundreds of different types of phenols that contribute to the diversity of plant life on Earth. Some,such as anthocyans and flavonoids, provide coloring. Others, such as Eugenol and Ketol, provide aroma. Phenols also show a wide range of effects on the biological pathways of humans and other animals. This includes everything from capsaicin, thanks to which hot peppers are hot to cannabinoids, the active component of marijuana. Anesthetic propofol, antiseptic xylene and salicylic acid, common acne drug is phenol.

Many people who are important for human health are polyphenols, chemicals made of several phenol molecules bound together. This group includes tannins, lignins and flavonoids. It is believed that some polyphenols such as Tyrosol and Oleuropein have antioxidant properties. Others may reduce the likelihood of heart disease or cancer. It is believed that at least one polyphenol, resveratrol, has strong effects against aging.

polyphenols can be found in olive oilI, fruit skin, leaves, berries, tea, coffee, chocolate, nuts and many other plant sources. Many of them can be found in wine, especially in red wine, where they contribute a lot to taste and color. Some have been extracted and made into food supplements. Since these compounds have been associated with many health benefits, some people quickly attribute other, less established benefits. Not every claim has a solid science; Let the buyer be careful.

Some phenols are actually harmful to health. Many plants exclude unpleasant or poisonous phenol compounds that discourage herbivores. One, Urushiol, causes a rash associated with poisonous ivy and poisonous oak. Tannins give their acorns their bitter taste and are poisonous in high doses. Carbolic acid causes chemical burns and can be carcinogenic. In short, ODCategories include a wide range of chemicals, including a wide range of effects on human health.