The Bombay Technologist

Resveratrol

Abhimanyu Joshi

Bachelor of Technology, Department of Oils, Oleochemicals & Surfactants

Pooja Sharma

Bachelor of Technology, Department of Food Engineering & Technology

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Abstract

Phytochemicals are being increasingly known as the "future prescription". Resveratrol is the most envisioned phytochemical belonging to family of phytoalexin polymers. Humans have been unknowingly consuming this compound since ancient times in the form of wine. It is widely distributed throughout the plant kingdom and has been recently considered for its role in health regulation and promotion. Various studies have been conducted on experimental animal models and some of them have been extrapolated on human subjects as well. It was observed that even though more than 70% was absorbed via oral route, its bioavailability was less due to rapid metabolism and excretion. The results can be used with a greater confidence level given the toxicity, absorption and metabolism of resveratrol is studied in detail. By increasing the bioavailability and optimizing the dosage this "red wine compound" can open up new frontiers in the treatment of fatal diseases. This review is an attempt to promote application of resveratrol as a nutritional supplement by highlighting its health benefits.