Tannic Acid

What is tannic acid?

Tannic acid is a compound extracted from nutgalls ^[1]. It is a nonessential nutrient that belongs to polyphenols or, more specifically, to tannins.

Foods High in Tannic Acid

Tannic Acid Supplements

Tannic acid as oral supplements or ointments are available without prescription (over-the-counter).

Tannic Acid Health Benefits

Tannic acid supplements are POSSIBLY INEFFECTIVE in the prevention or treatment of cold sores and fever, diaper rash, prickly heat and sunburn ^[1].

There is INSUFFICIENT EVIDENCE about the effectiveness of tannic acid supplements in the prevention or treatment of cancer, ingrown toenails, sore throat, poison ivy, swollen tonsils and thinning gums ^[1].

Tannic Acid Safety: Side Effects, Toxicity

Tannic acid may be UNSAFE when applied to the skin to treat cold sores, diaper rash, prickly heat or sunburn ^[1].

Oral tannic acid supplements may cause kidney or liver damage ^[1].

Not enough is known about the safety of tannic acid supplements during pregnancy and breastfeeding, so women in these periods should avoid them. ^[1].

Tannic Acid-Drug Interactions

Tannic acid supplements can inhibit the absorption of iron from foods ^[2,3] and certain oral supplements and drugs and may decrease their effectiveness ^[1].