Tannic acid, a plant-derived polyphenol, has been used for centuries in traditional medicine and modern-day pharmaceuticals. Known for its astringent, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties, it plays a significant role in various medicinal and pharmaceutical applications.
But is tannic acid safe for pharmaceutical use? In this blog by Akshat Rasayan, we will explore the safety, pharmaceutical relevance, and real-world uses of tannic acid in medicine and healthcare products.
What is Tannic Acid?
Tannic acid is a type of hydrolyzable tannin derived mainly from natural sources such as gallnuts, tara pods, sumac, oak bark, and other plant materials. It appears as a light brown or yellowish powder and has a strong astringent taste.
Its ability to bind proteins and form a protective layer over tissues makes it highly useful in pharmaceuticals, especially in treating wounds, burns, ulcers, and gastrointestinal issues.
Is Tannic Acid Safe for Pharmaceutical Use?
The answer is: Yes—when used properly.
Pharmaceutical-grade tannic acid is purified to remove any unwanted compounds and tested rigorously to meet safety standards. Regulatory bodies in many countries, including the US FDA and the European Medicines Agency, allow its use in external applications and carefully formulated internal medications.
At Akshat Rasayan, we manufacture and supply pharmaceutical-grade tannic acid, ensuring high purity, compliance with international standards, and suitability for various medicinal uses.
Pharmaceutical Applications of Tannic Acid
Let’s now look at how tannic acid is used in medicine and pharmaceuticals. Below are the most common applications:
1. Tannic Acid in Topical Ointments
Tannic acid is a popular ingredient in topical ointments used for:
- Minor burns
- Skin rashes and irritation
- Hemorrhoids
- Sunburn relief
- Eczema and dermatitis
Its astringent property helps tighten the skin and reduce inflammation. It also creates a protective layer on wounds, aiding in faster healing and reducing the risk of infections.
Topical products containing tannic acid are considered safe for all age groups when used externally.
2. Tannic Acid in Pharmaceuticals
Tannic acid has a wide range of pharmaceutical uses, such as:
- Antidiarrheal medications: Tannic acid binds to proteins in the gut lining, reducing inflammation and controlling loose stools.
- Oral medications and lozenges: Used to treat sore throat, mouth ulcers, and gum inflammation.
- Hemostatic agents: Their astringent action helps reduce bleeding by constricting blood vessels.
- Suppositories and rectal creams: Tannic acid is also used in hemorrhoid creams and anal fissure treatments for its soothing effect.
Pharmaceutical companies often combine tannic acid with other medicinal herbs and chemical ingredients to boost effectiveness.
3. Tannic Acid for Medicinal Use
In broader medicinal applications, tannic acid is used for:
- Detoxification therapies: It binds with heavy metals and toxins and helps in detoxifying the body.
- Wound care products: Help in clotting and healing open wounds and ulcers.
- Skin care medicine: It acts as a soothing agent for inflamed skin conditions.
- Antiviral potential: Some studies have shown that tannic acid can inhibit certain viruses from replicating, though this is still an area of active research.
Its versatility makes it an ideal component in herbal and Ayurvedic medicine as well.
Pharmaceutical Grade Tannic Acid: Why Purity Matters
Not all tannic acid is created equal. Pharmaceutical grade tannic acid must be:
- Free from contaminants
- Tested for heavy metals
- Accurately dosed
- Consistently manufactured
At Akshat Rasayan, our tannic acid is produced under controlled environments and tested for:
- Microbial safety
- Moisture content
- Tannin concentration
- Solubility and pH compatibility
This ensures our product is suitable for topical, oral, and cosmetic pharmaceutical applications.
Benefits of Using Tannic Acid in Medicine
Here are some key benefits of using tannic acid in pharmaceutical formulations:
Benefit | Description |
Astringent | Tightens tissues and reduces inflammation |
Antioxidant | Protects against cell damage |
Antibacterial | Prevents bacterial infections in wounds |
Hemostatic | Helps stop minor bleeding |
Gastroprotective | Reduces intestinal irritation |
How is Tannic Acid Used in Medicine? – Summary Table
Application Area | Use |
Topical ointments | Skin irritation, burns, hemorrhoids |
Oral formulations | Sore throat, gum issues |
GI medicine | Controls diarrhea, reduces inflammation |
Suppositories | Hemorrhoid treatment |
Herbal supplements | Detox and immune support |
Precautions and Side Effects
Although tannic acid is generally safe for external and regulated internal use, high doses or prolonged consumption can lead to:
- Gastrointestinal upset
- Liver damage (rare and only in very high doses)
- Irritation when applied to broken skin in high concentrations
Therefore, it should always be used under expert supervision and as per recommended guidelines.
Why Choose Akshat Rasayan for Pharmaceutical Grade Tannic Acid?
- High Purity: Our tannic acid is refined and tested for pharmaceutical use.
- Consistent Quality: Every batch meets strict chemical and microbiological parameters.
- Prompt Supply: We serve both bulk and small-scale pharmaceutical clients across India and abroad.
- Technical Support: Our team helps you with product formulation, COAs, and usage guidelines.
Conclusion
Tannic acid is a safe and effective ingredient widely used in modern medicine, particularly in topical ointments, gastrointestinal medications, oral care products, and wound care treatments. When sourced from a reliable manufacturer like Akshat Rasayan, it becomes a powerful addition to any pharmaceutical product.
If you’re looking to buy pharmaceutical-grade tannic acid in India, contact Akshat Rasayan today for a high-quality supply and technical assistance.