Enterolignans are

organic compound Some chemical authorities define an organic compound as a chemical compound that contains a carbon–hydrogen or carbon–carbon bond; others consider an organic compound to be any chemical compound that contains carbon. For example, carbon-co ...

s formed by the action of gut microflora on

lignan The lignans are a large group of low molecular weight polyphenols found in plants, particularly seeds, whole grains, and vegetables. The name derives from the Latin word for "wood". Lignans are precursors to phytoestrogens. They may play a rol ...

s. They are thus the products of the combined action of both plants and of the animal gut. Prominent enterolignans are

enterodiol Enterodiol is an organic compound with the formula OC6H4CH2CH(CH2OH)sub>2. It is formed by the action of intestinal bacteria on lignan The lignans are a large group of low molecular weight polyphenols found in plants, particularly seeds, ...

and enterolactone. Enterolignans are also called "mammalian lignans", although that term is self-contradictory since mammals do not produce lignans. Enterolignans have attracted intense attention because of their potential beneficial roles in nutrition. Elevated levels of enterodiol in urine are attributed consumption of tea and other lignan-rich foods.

References

Polyols Lignans 3-Hydroxyphenyl compounds {{aromatic-stub