Ricerc@Sapienza

Henna is the current name of the dye prepared from the dry leaf powder ofLawsonia inermis(Lythraceae). Several studies have focused on the chemistry and pharmacology of the henna dyeingactive compound, lawsone, obtained from the main constituents of leaves, hennosides, during theprocessing of plant material. However, knowledge regarding the biological activity of hennosidesis largely lacking. In this paper, the redox activity of three hennoside isomers is reported.

Pomegranate fruit is a functional food of high interest for human health due to its wide range of phytochemicals with antioxidant properties are implicated in the prevention of inflammation and cancer. Ellagitannins, such as punicalagin and ellagic acid, play a role as anti-atherogenic and neuroprotective molecules in the complex fighting against the degenerative diseases.