Theaflavins are a group of polyphenol pigments found in both black and oolong teas. They are obtained by the oxidation and dimerization of green tea catechins during the manufacture of black tea and oolong tea. Theaflavins contribute to the characteristic bright orange-red color of black tea. Theaflavins include theaflavin, theaflavin-3-gallate, theaflavin-3’-gallate and theaflavin-3,3’-digallate.
Theaflavins are used to manage cholesterol and used to support the heart and digestive system. They could be used as protective agents against cardiovascular disease and cancer. It is also believed that they have a wide range of other pharmaceutical benefits, including antihypertensive, antioxidative and hypolipidemic activities. It is suggested that theaflavins have a potential to be developed as a safe and affordable topical microbicide for preventing sexual transmission of HIV.
