Caffeic acid is a type of phenolic acid found in many plants and foods, such as apples and red wine. Coffee is the main source of caffeic acid in the diet.
Caffeic acid might have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. It might also have effects on the immune system.
People use caffeic acid for athletic performance, obesity, and other purposes, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.
Is It Effective?
There is interest in using caffeic acid for a number of purposes, but there isn't enough reliable information to say whether it might be helpful.
Is it Safe?
When taken by mouth: Caffeic acid is commonly consumed in foods. But there isn't enough reliable information to know if caffeic acid is safe to use as medicine or what the side effects might be.
Special Precautions & Warnings:
Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Caffeic acid is commonly consumed in foods. But there isn't enough reliable information to know if caffeic acid is safe to use as medicine when pregnant or breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.
Insomnia. Caffeic acid might have a mild stimulating effect that could make insomnia worse. But this effect is much less than with caffeine.
Levodopa
Interaction Rating=Minor Be watchful with this combination.
Caffeic acid might change the way the body breaks down and gets rid of levodopa. But it's not clear if this is a big concern.
Medications moved by pumps in cells (Organic anion transporter 1 (OAT1) substrates)
Interaction Rating=Moderate Be cautious with this combination.
Some medications are moved in and out of cells by pumps. Caffeic acid might change how these pumps work and change how much medication stays in the body. In some cases, this might change the effects and side effects of a medication.
Medications moved by pumps in cells (Organic anion transporter 3 (OAT3) substrates)
Interaction Rating=Moderate Be cautious with this combination.
Some medications are moved in and out of cells by pumps. Caffeic acid might change how these pumps work and change how much medication stays in the body. In some cases, this might change the effects and side effects of a medication.
There are no known interactions with herbs and supplements.
There are no known interactions with foods.
Caffeic acid is found in many plants and foods. Coffee is the biggest source of caffeic acid in the diet, but it's also found in red wine, berries, apples, olives, artichokes, and pears. As medicine, there isn't enough reliable information to know what an appropriate dose of caffeic acid might be. Keep in mind that natural products are not always necessarily safe and dosages can be important. Be sure to follow relevant directions on product labels and consult a healthcare professional before using.
3,4-DA, 3,4-Dihydroxycinnamic acid, 3,4-Dihydroxycinnamic Acid, 2-Propenoic Acid, 3-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl), 3-(3,4-Dihydroxy Phenyl)-2-Propenoic Acid, 3-(3,4-Dihydroxyphenyl)Propenoic Acid, 3,4-Dihydroxybenzeneacrylic Acid, 4-(2-Carboxyethenyl)-1,2-Dihydroxybenzene, 4-(2'-Carboxyvinyl)-1,2-Dihydroxybenzene, (2E)-3-(3,4-Dihydroxyphenyl)-2-Propenoic Acid, Acide Caféique, Ácido Cafeico.
Information on this website is for informational use only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. While evidence-based, it is not guaranteed to be error-free and is not intended to meet any particular user’s needs or requirements or to cover all possible uses, safety concerns, interactions, outcomes, or adverse effects. Always check with your doctor or other medical professional before making healthcare decisions (including taking any medication) and do not delay or disregard seeking medical advice or treatment based on any information displayed on this website.
© TRC Healthcare 2024. All rights reserved. Use and/or distribution is permitted only pursuant to a valid license or other permission from TRC Healthcare.