Compound Monograph
Theaflavin (TF)
Theaflavin is a reddish polyphenol pigment formed when tea catechins are oxidized during black-tea processing.
Sources · 1
Where Does It Come From?
Theaflavin (TF) is a naturally occurring theaflavin (benzotropolone polyphenol), found in Tea. It is well tolerated orally (low toxicity).
Concentration
Content by Source
Concentrations not reported. No percent-dry-weight or mg/g figures have been published for this compound in its source plants.
Research & Evidence
Theaflavin is the parent compound of the theaflavins, a group of reddish-orange pigments that form when the catechins of green tea are enzymatically oxidized during black-tea manufacture. They contribute to the color and briskness of black tea. Theaflavin has been studied in the laboratory for antioxidant and other activities, and is sometimes grouped loosely with tea flavonoids, although structurally it is a benzotropolone-based polyphenol distinct from the simple flavonoids.
Toxicity & Safety
As a constituent of ordinary black tea, theaflavin is consumed routinely and is regarded as low in toxicity at dietary levels. Concentrated extracts have not been as fully characterized.
