Caffeic acid is one of the chemicals isolated from the bark of Eucalyptus globulus. It is also found in the freshwater fern Salvinia molesta, in the mushroom Phellinus linteus, and in tobacco. Caffeic acid is a polyphenol, a class of micronutrients found in plant foods. More specifically, caffeic acid is part of a group of polyphenols called hydroxycinnamic acids. These compounds are valued for antioxidant properties that confer numerous health benefits.

Caffeic acid is thought to have many effects in the body including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. It might also affect the immune system in the body. Test tube studies show that it might decrease the growth of cancer cells and viruses. Animal studies show that it might have a mild stimulant effect and reduce fatigue related to exercise. The effects of caffeic acid when taken by people are not known.

Health Benefits

Caffeic acid is a metabolite of hydroxycinnamate and phenylpropanoid, which are commonly synthesized by all plant species. It is present in various food sources that are known for their antioxidant properties. As an antioxidant, caffeic acid ameliorates reactive oxygen species, which have been reported to cause bone loss. Some studies have highlighted the effects of caffeic acid against bone resorption.

Both of the bone-protective qualities of caffeic acid have positive implications for the rest of your body systems. ROS damage cells all across the body, so increasing antioxidant levels protects all of your body tissues. Here are some other benefits of caffeic acid:

Diabetes Prevention

Research in diabetic mice has shown that caffeic acid lowers blood glucose levels, fights inflammation, and raises blood insulin levels.

Heart Disease

Caffeic acid reduces the risk of a blood clots and lowers triglycerides, both of which are associated with heart disease.

Cancer

Studies on the impact of caffeic acid found it has anticancer properties on specific kinds of cancer, including oral cancer, colon cancer7, and breast cancer.

Anti-Aging

A study on caffeic acid derived from garlic found it reduces UVB-induced wrinkle formation when topically applied to hairless mice.

Synopsis

Caffeic acid benefits your overall health by preventing diabetes and heart disease and fighting cancer and aging.