Have you ever stopped to appreciate what dazzling things plants are? They must feed themselves, reproduce, protect themselves from the elements and ward off animals, insects and microbes, all without having the ability to move. They don't have any muscles, bones and brains to get any of this done. So how will they survive? They are chemical manufacturing plants, quite literally. They produce phytochemicals which are chemical compounds that perform a myriad of functions. It shouldn't be any surprise then that many of those phytochemicals and polyphenols are very good for us and can really help us with detox. They do everything from fighting cancer to fighting UV radiation from the sun to fighting bacteria, fungus and viruses. Let’s have a look at some of plants ‘ most superb polyphenols.

Benzoic Acid

Benzoic acid is found in many plants and animals but is exceedingly concentrated in gum benzoin and berries such as raspberries, strawberries, cranberries and pomegranates. It has robust antifungal properties and is used in ointments combating athlete’s foot and ringworm (known as tinea). It is also used as a food preservative as it helps to forestall the growth of yeast, mold and bacteria.

Phenolic Acids Gallic Acid

Gallic acid can occur either as a part of a tannin molecule or as a free molecule. It is found in almost all plants, but is found in high concentrations in grapes, witch hazel, tea, evening primrose oil, pomegranate seed oil, and mango butter. Gallic acid has anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal and antiviral properties and it acts as an antioxidant to guard our cells from oxidizing agents. Studies have shown that gallic acid lead to cancer cells to self-destruct while not causing any damage to ordinary cells. It is an fantastic wound healer and might have use in the handling of psoriasis and hemorrhoids.

Ellagic Acid

Ellagic acid, sometimes called benzoaric acid, is produced by plants so as to protect themselves against pests and microbial infection. It is present in berries and red fruits including pomegranates, strawberries, raspberries, cranberries and some nuts like walnuts and pecans. Ellagic acid is a potent anti-oxidant protecting cells from oxidative damage, but its real strength has been found in its anti-cancer properties. Research has demonstrated that ellagic acid can interrupt the cycle of cancer cell development by binding with them and making them inactive. It's been shown to have anti-cancer effects on a large range of cancers including: skin, prostate, pancreas, colon, breast and esophageal. There is also some evidence that ellagic acid offers protection against some chemically prompted cancers.

Rosmarinic Acid

Rosmarini acid is found in large quantities in rosemary, lemon relief, sage, oregano, thyme and peppermint. Rosmarinic acid has anti-microbe, antioxidising agent and anti-inflammatory properties. Its anti-oxidant activity is considered to be stronger than that of vitamin e. As an anti-inflammatory it helps to reduce the appearance of find lines and wrinkles and behaves like an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA).

Plants are natural detoxification factories that we can use to help detox our bodies, and polyphenols and skin care really do go together. There are no negative side-effects and nothing synthesised either. So when you want help, turn to nature.

Paulo Ponnerman has been using Prosper Organics line of organic skin care products to help to keep his skin looking soft and smooth.

  Tags: phytochemicals, skin care, gum benzoin