Natural pterostilbene – Bioactive phytonutrient
What do healthful berries, red wine, and an Ayurvedic medicinal preparation for cardiovascular wellness, Drakshasava, have in common? A high content of stilbenes (phenylpropanoid compounds), notably resveratrol and its analogue pterostilbene, that are known to have diverse pharmacological activities (Roupe, et al., 2006). Several phenylpropanoids are antimicrobial compounds, secondary metabolites synthesized by plant cells in response to attack by grazing animals or pathogen infestation, and are classified as phytoalexins (Langcake, et al. 1977).