Pharmacological relevance of anthocyanin derivative: A review

Abstract

Background

Anthocyanins, a group of natural flavonoid pigments responsible for red, purple, and blue hues in plants, are valued in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for their health benefits including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and organ-protective effects.

Objective

This review explores the pharmacological properties of anthocyanins in relation to TCM applications, focusing on their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, cardioprotective, neuroprotective, anticancer, metabolic, and skin health effects. Additionally, it highlights the challenges with bioavailability and strategies to enhance absorption.

Methods

A systematic literature review was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, examining studies on anthocyanin chemistry and therapeutic applications aligned with TCM principles.

Results

Anthocyanins display structural diversity, which contributes to their wide-ranging bioactivity. Cyanidine, delphinidine and rutinoside compounds serve as potent antioxidants, reduce inflammation, support cardiovascular and neuroprotection, inhibit cancer cell growth, improve metabolic profiles, and protect skin from damage. However, the limited bioavailability of peonidin, pelargonidin, and malvidin hinders their full therapeutic potential.

Discussion

This review highlights the diverse therapeutic potential of cyanidine and delphinidine, in alignment with Traditional Chinese Medicine principles to enhance vitality and support healing. Their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, cardioprotective, neuroprotective, anticancer, and metabolic benefits suggest that they may play a key role in managing chronic diseases. Although challenges in bioavailability remain, strategies such as encapsulation and co-ingestion show promise in improving efficacy. Future research should focus on clarifying the molecular mechanisms, optimizing formulations, and exploring interactions with the gut microbiota to fully realize their therapeutic potential.