Perspectives on geraniin, a multifunctional natural bioactive compound

Ellagitannins have shown many health benefits, yet knowledge and application of these compounds are seriously limited due to their complexity and diversity. In this review, we discuss the natural occurrence and spectrum of health benefits of the ellagitannin geraniin, and its potential as a functional food additive. We examine current literature on the wide range of bioactive properties of geraniin as well as its purification from plant sources. The natural occurrence of geraniin and the diversity of bioactive properties of the compound make geraniin a suitable candidate for further study into its potential pharmaceutical, nutritional, cosmetic and industrial application.