Description
Tannic acid, also known as tannin or gallotannic acid, is a naturally occurring compound found in various plant tissues. It is a polyphenol and belongs to the group of compounds called tannins. Extracted from plants such as oak bark, gallnuts, and certain fruits, tannic acid is characterized by its astringent taste and protein-binding ability.
Tannic acid has diverse applications across industries. It possesses astringent properties suitable for skincare products, contributes to the tanning process in the leather industry, and forms colored complexes used in dyeing fabrics and producing inks. In traditional medicine, it is valued for its antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. Tannic acid is also significant in brewing and winemaking, enhancing the characteristics of red wines. Furthermore, it finds use as a chemical reagent in reactions within fields like photography, textiles, and metal processing.