Caffeic Acid

Alias: 3,4-dihydroxycinnamic acid

Chemical Name: 2-Propenoic acid,3-(3,4-dihydroxy-phenyl)-

Physical Properties:

   Obtain yellow crystals from concentrated aqueous solution and monohydrate from dilute aqueous solution. Decomposition point 223~225° (soften at 194°). Slightly soluble in cold water, soluble in hot water and cold ethanol.

Pharmacological Effects:

   1. Antibacterial and antiviral: It has strong inhibitory effect on vaccinia and adenovirus, followed by polio type I and parainfluenza type III  virus.

   2. Anti-venom: Caffeic acid can completely inhibit 20 micrograms of rattlesnake venom phosphodiesterase at a dose of 3 micrograms, and is used as an anti-venom.

   3. It can increase the secretion of hydrochloric acid in the human stomach and slow down the pulse;

   4. It can increase white blood cells, stop bleeding and inactivate vitamin B1.

   5. It has the effect of shortening blood clotting and bleeding time.

   6. It can enhance the tension of the uterus. This effect can be antagonized by papaverine, but atropine cannot.