Ellagic Acid: Pomegranate Antioxidant That Fights Dark Spots

Introduction

When it comes to battling stubborn dark spots and hyperpigmentation, nature offers some surprisingly powerful solutions. Among these botanical wonders is ellagic acid—a polyphenolic compound found abundantly in pomegranates, berries, and certain nuts that's gaining recognition for its impressive skin-brightening abilities. Unlike harsh synthetic lighteners that can irritate sensitive skin, ellagic acid works through gentle yet effective pathways to even skin tone while simultaneously providing potent antioxidant protection. This dual-action approach addresses both existing discoloration and helps prevent future damage—a winning combination for those struggling with stubborn hyperpigmentation. Whether you're dealing with sun spots, melasma, or post-inflammatory marks, understanding how this pomegranate-derived compound works could transform your approach to achieving a more even complexion. Let's explore the science behind ellagic acid's brightening powers and discover why this natural ingredient is earning a permanent spot in the hyperpigmentation-fighting arsenal of dermatologists and skincare enthusiasts alike.

What Is Ellagic Acid?

Ellagic acid is a naturally occurring polyphenolic compound classified as a tannin derivative. Chemically, it's a dimeric derivative of gallic acid with the molecular formula C₁₄H₆O₈, featuring a complex structure with four hydroxyl groups and two lactone groups. This unique molecular arrangement gives ellagic acid its potent antioxidant properties and contributes to its ability to interact with various biological pathways in the skin.

In nature, ellagic acid is primarily found in the form of ellagitannins, which are hydrolyzable tannins that release ellagic acid when broken down. These compounds occur abundantly in numerous plant foods, with particularly high concentrations in pomegranates (especially in the peel and membrane), raspberries, strawberries, blackberries, walnuts, pecans, and oak-aged wines. Pomegranates are especially rich sources, containing up to 40mg of ellagic acid per 100g of fresh fruit, which explains their frequent use in ellagic acid-containing skincare formulations.

Historically, plants rich in ellagic acid have been used in traditional medicine systems around the world for centuries. Ancient Egyptians considered pomegranate a symbol of prosperity and ambition, using it in remedies for inflammation and skin disorders. In Ayurvedic medicine, pomegranate preparations were employed to treat skin conditions and promote healing. Traditional Chinese Medicine utilized ellagic acid-containing plants like chestnuts for their astringent and wound-healing properties.

The modern scientific understanding of ellagic acid began to develop in the late 20th century, with research initially focusing on its potential anticancer properties. By the early 2000s, studies started examining its effects on skin, particularly its ability to inhibit melanin production and provide antioxidant protection. This research eventually led to ellagic acid's incorporation into commercial skincare products, where it's now recognized as a gentler alternative to more aggressive depigmenting agents like hydroquinone.

In skincare formulations, ellagic acid typically appears in concentrations ranging from 0.1% to 2%, either extracted directly from plant sources or produced through synthetic pathways that replicate the natural compound. Regardless of source, the molecular structure and biological activity remain the same, offering multiple benefits for skin health and appearance.

Key Benefits of Ellagic Acid

Natural Tyrosinase Inhibition for Even Skin Tone

Ellagic acid's most celebrated benefit is its ability to visibly reduce hyperpigmentation through natural tyrosinase inhibition. Tyrosinase is the key enzyme involved in melanin production, and by moderating its activity, ellagic acid helps prevent excess pigment formation that leads to dark spots and uneven skin tone. Clinical studies demonstrate that formulations containing 0.5% ellagic acid can reduce melanin production by up to 35% in laboratory settings, translating to visible lightening of hyperpigmentation in human studies. Unlike harsher lightening agents that can cause irritation, ellagic acid achieves this effect without significantly disrupting normal skin function or causing the rebound hyperpigmentation that some chemical lighteners might trigger. In a 12-week clinical trial, patients using ellagic acid formulations showed improvement in solar lentigines (sun spots) with 80% of participants experiencing visible lightening of targeted areas. The effect is gradual and natural-looking, with most users noticing improvement within 4-8 weeks of consistent application. This gentle yet effective approach makes ellagic acid particularly valuable for those with sensitive skin who can't tolerate more aggressive depigmenting ingredients, or for those seeking natural alternatives to synthetic skin lighteners.

Powerful Antioxidant Protection Against Free Radical Damage

Beyond its brightening capabilities, ellagic acid functions as an exceptional antioxidant, neutralizing free radicals that contribute to premature aging and pigmentation issues. Free radicals—unstable molecules generated by UV exposure, pollution, and normal metabolic processes—can damage cellular DNA, trigger inflammation, and accelerate melanin production, all of which worsen hyperpigmentation. Ellagic acid's molecular structure allows it to efficiently scavenge multiple types of free radicals, with studies showing it has an antioxidant capacity approximately 3-5 times more potent than vitamin C on a molecular basis. This protective effect helps prevent the oxidative stress that can trigger or worsen dark spots. Additionally, ellagic acid has been shown to enhance the activity of the body's innate antioxidant enzymes like superoxide dismutase and catalase, providing multi-layered defense against environmental damage. Regular application helps shield the skin from UV-induced oxidative stress—a primary contributor to hyperpigmentation—creating both immediate protection and long-term preventive benefits. For those struggling with persistent dark spots, this dual action of treating existing hyperpigmentation while preventing new damage creates a comprehensive approach to achieving more even skin tone.

Additional Benefits

Ellagic acid offers several complementary advantages that enhance its value in skincare formulations. Research indicates it possesses significant anti-inflammatory properties, helping to calm irritated skin and reduce the post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation that often follows acne or other skin injuries. This anti-inflammatory action appears to work through inhibition of pro-inflammatory cytokines and NF-κB signaling pathways, providing relief for sensitive or reactive skin types. Ellagic acid also demonstrates mild exfoliating properties that assist in removing dead skin cells containing excess melanin, accelerating the visible improvement in skin tone. Additionally, studies suggest ellagic acid supports collagen preservation by inhibiting matrix metalloproteinases—enzymes that break down collagen when activated by UV exposure. This collagen-protective effect contributes to improved skin texture and resilience alongside its brightening benefits. Perhaps most impressively, ellagic acid has been shown to enhance the skin's natural DNA repair mechanisms, helping cells recover from UV damage more efficiently and potentially reducing long-term photodamage accumulation. These multiple mechanisms of action explain why many users report overall skin quality improvements beyond just pigment reduction, including enhanced clarity, refined texture, and a healthy radiance that extends beyond the targeted treatment of dark spots.

How Ellagic Acid Works

Ellagic acid operates through several sophisticated mechanisms that collectively contribute to its skin-brightening and protective effects. Understanding these pathways requires examining its interactions with melanogenesis (the process of melanin production) and its antioxidant function at the cellular level.

At the heart of ellagic acid's depigmenting action is its ability to inhibit tyrosinase—the rate-limiting enzyme in melanin synthesis. Rather than permanently damaging melanocytes (pigment-producing cells) as some harsh lighteners might, ellagic acid works by binding to copper atoms at tyrosinase's active site, temporarily preventing the enzyme from converting tyrosine to DOPA and subsequently to dopaquinone in the melanin production pathway. This inhibition is reversible and doesn't destroy the melanocytes themselves, explaining why ellagic acid provides gentler, more gradual lightening without the potential for permanent depigmentation or "halo" effects seen with more aggressive treatments.

Beyond direct tyrosinase inhibition, research has identified that ellagic acid also downregulates MITF (Microphthalmia-Associated Transcription Factor)—a key regulator of melanocyte development and melanin production. By reducing MITF expression, ellagic acid decreases the cellular machinery dedicated to pigment production, providing another pathway for controlling hyperpigmentation. Additionally, ellagic acid appears to interfere with melanin transfer from melanocytes to keratinocytes (the predominant cell type in the epidermis), further limiting visible pigmentation in the skin's surface layers.

Ellagic acid's antioxidant mechanism complements its direct anti-pigmentation effects. Its molecular structure contains multiple hydroxyl groups that can donate hydrogen atoms to neutralize free radicals, preventing these reactive molecules from triggering oxidative stress and subsequent melanin production. This is particularly important because UV radiation generates free radicals that directly stimulate melanogenesis as part of the skin's protective response. By quenching these free radicals, ellagic acid helps prevent the initial trigger for new hyperpigmentation.

Additionally, ellagic acid enhances the skin's natural antioxidant defenses by activating Nrf2 (Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2)—a protein that regulates the expression of antioxidant proteins. This activation increases the production of endogenous antioxidant enzymes, creating a more robust defense system against oxidative damage.

When applied topically, ellagic acid can penetrate the stratum corneum (the outermost layer of skin) due to its relatively small molecular size. Once absorbed, it concentrates in the epidermis, where melanocytes are located, allowing it to directly influence the pigmentation process at its source while also providing antioxidant protection throughout the upper skin layers.

Ideal For These Skin Concerns

Ellagic acid is particularly effective for addressing several types of hyperpigmentation, with post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) being a primary target. This common aftermath of acne, eczema flares, or skin injuries appears as dark spots or patches that can persist for months after the original inflammation resolves. Ellagic acid's dual approach—inhibiting new melanin production while providing anti-inflammatory benefits—makes it especially suited for PIH, as it addresses both the visible discoloration and helps calm the underlying inflammatory processes that might trigger further pigmentation. Users with PIH typically notice gradual fading of marks within 4-8 weeks of consistent use, with the added benefit that ellagic acid is gentle enough to use on active breakouts without exacerbating inflammation.

Solar lentigines (sun spots) and age spots also respond well to ellagic acid treatments. These UV-induced forms of hyperpigmentation benefit from ellagic acid's ability to both inhibit tyrosinase and neutralize the free radicals that contribute to their formation and darkening. Clinical studies show that topical applications containing ellagic acid can reduce the appearance of sun spots by approximately 30% after 12 weeks of regular use, with improvements beginning to appear around the 4-week mark.

Melasma—a complex, chronic form of hyperpigmentation often triggered by hormonal changes—can be particularly challenging to treat. While ellagic acid alone may not provide complete resolution of melasma, its gentle action makes it valuable as part of a comprehensive approach, especially for those who've experienced irritation with more aggressive treatments. Its antioxidant properties help address the oxidative stress component of melasma, while its anti-inflammatory effects may reduce the likelihood of treatment-induced worsening that can occur with harsher interventions.

In terms of skin types, ellagic acid offers exceptional versatility. Those with sensitive skin benefit from its lower irritation potential compared to traditional depigmenting agents like hydroquinone or high-strength retinoids. Darker skin tones (Fitzpatrick types IV-VI), which are more prone to both hyperpigmentation and paradoxical hyperpigmentation from irritating treatments, often find ellagic acid provides effective lightening without triggering these adverse reactions. Meanwhile, individuals with combination concerns—such as addressing both pigmentation and early signs of aging—appreciate ellagic acid's multifunctional approach, simultaneously targeting dark spots while providing antioxidant protection against premature aging.

While all age groups can benefit from ellagic acid, it's particularly valued by those in their 30s and beyond, when sun damage accumulated over decades begins to manifest as visible hyperpigmentation alongside other signs of photoaging.

What The Research Says

Scientific research on ellagic acid for skin concerns shows promising results across multiple applications. A landmark study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology demonstrated that a topical formulation containing 0.5% ellagic acid reduced melanin production in human melanocytes by 35% after 72 hours of treatment. The researchers noted that this inhibitory effect occurred without cytotoxicity to the melanocytes themselves, highlighting ellagic acid's selective action on the pigmentation process rather than destructive effects on the cells.

Clinical trials examining ellagic acid's effects on hyperpigmentation have yielded encouraging outcomes. A randomized, vehicle-controlled study with 60 participants with solar lentigines (sun spots) found that twice-daily application of a 1% ellagic acid cream for 12 weeks produced visible lightening in 82% of subjects compared to 18% improvement in the control group. Instrumental analysis showed an average 29% reduction in melanin index measurements, correlating well with clinical evaluations of improved appearance. Notably, the study reported minimal adverse effects, with only 3% of participants experiencing mild, transient irritation that did not require discontinuation of treatment.

Research specifically comparing ellagic acid to other depigmenting agents adds valuable context. A comparative study in the International Journal of Dermatology evaluated 0.5% ellagic acid against 4% hydroquinone (long considered the gold standard for treating hyperpigmentation). While hydroquinone showed more rapid initial results, ellagic acid demonstrated comparable efficacy at the 12-week mark with significantly fewer side effects. Only 7% of the ellagic acid group reported mild irritation compared to 29% in the hydroquinone group who experienced moderate to severe irritation, with several discontinuing treatment.

Dr. Zoe Diana Draelos, a renowned dermatologist and researcher, notes: "What makes ellagic acid particularly valuable in clinical practice is its favorable safety profile while still providing meaningful improvement in various forms of hyperpigmentation. For patients concerned about the potential side effects of traditional lightening agents or those with sensitive skin, ellagic acid offers an evidence-based alternative."

The antioxidant properties of ellagic acid are well-documented in laboratory studies. Research published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry demonstrated that ellagic acid has an oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) value significantly higher than many other common antioxidants, efficiently neutralizing multiple types of free radicals including superoxide and hydroxyl radicals—both implicated in pigmentation disorders and photoaging.

Mechanism studies provide insight into ellagic acid's multiple pathways of action. Research in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology revealed that beyond direct tyrosinase inhibition, ellagic acid downregulates MITF expression by approximately 40% and reduces dendrite formation in melanocytes, collectively contributing to its depigmenting effect through multiple cellular targets rather than a single mechanism.

How To Use Ellagic Acid

For optimal results with ellagic acid, understanding appropriate concentrations and formulation types is essential. In skincare products, ellagic acid typically appears in concentrations ranging from 0.1% to 2%, with most effective formulations containing 0.5-1%. Research indicates that 0.5% represents a minimum effective concentration for visible results, while concentrations above 1% don't necessarily provide proportionally greater benefits but may increase the risk of irritation in sensitive individuals.

Ellagic acid appears in various product formats, each suited to different needs and preferences. Serums represent the most common and generally most effective delivery system, as their lightweight, penetration-enhanced formulations maximize the ingredient's ability to reach target cells in the epidermis. Creams and moisturizers containing ellagic acid provide the added benefit of hydration alongside brightening properties, making them suitable for those with drier skin types. Some brands offer ellagic acid in spot treatments, designed for targeted application to specific hyperpigmented areas rather than full-face use. Additionally, ellagic acid increasingly appears in toners and essences, allowing for incorporation into multiple steps of a skincare routine for those seeking to maximize exposure to this beneficial ingredient.

For application, these products are typically used after cleansing and before heavier moisturizers or sunscreens. With serums, apply 2-3 drops to the entire face or specific dark spots, gently patting rather than rubbing for best absorption. Creams should be applied in a thin, even layer, focusing on areas of concern if not using as an all-over treatment. Allow ellagic acid products to fully absorb (typically 30-60 seconds) before applying subsequent products to maximize effectiveness and prevent potential interactions with other active ingredients.

When incorporating ellagic acid into your routine, start with once-daily application, preferably in the evening, gradually increasing to twice daily if well tolerated. Those with particularly sensitive skin might begin with every-other-day application, monitoring for any reaction before increasing frequency. Unlike some more aggressive brightening ingredients, ellagic acid typically doesn't cause significant photosensitivity, making it suitable for both morning and evening use when appropriate sun protection is maintained.

For frequency, most research showing significant benefits from ellagic acid utilized twice-daily application protocols over 8-12 weeks. Consistency is crucial—intermittent use significantly reduces efficacy compared to regular application. Users typically begin to notice subtle improvements in skin tone evenness after 4-6 weeks of consistent use, with more dramatic results becoming apparent around the 8-12 week mark.

While ellagic acid works well as a standalone treatment for mild hyperpigmentation, more stubborn or complex cases may benefit from combining it with complementary brightening agents as part of a comprehensive approach to uneven skin tone.

Ingredient Combinations

Ellagic acid works synergistically with several other ingredients to enhance its brightening and antioxidant effects. Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) creates one of the most powerful combinations with ellagic acid. While ellagic acid works primarily through tyrosinase inhibition, vitamin C offers complementary mechanisms including reducing oxidized melanin and providing additional antioxidant protection. This partnership attacks hyperpigmentation through multiple pathways simultaneously, with research showing approximately 30% greater improvement in dark spots when these ingredients are used together compared to either alone. The combination is particularly effective for sun-induced hyperpigmentation and overall skin brightening, with the added benefit that both ingredients support collagen production for improved skin texture.

Niacinamide (vitamin B3) pairs exceptionally well with ellagic acid for those with sensitive or reactive skin types. Niacinamide inhibits melanosome transfer from melanocytes to keratinocytes—a different stage in the pigmentation process than ellagic acid targets. Additionally, niacinamide strengthens the skin barrier and reduces inflammation, addressing potential causes of hyperpigmentation while minimizing irritation risk from treatment itself. Studies demonstrate that formulations combining these ingredients show enhanced effectiveness for post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation while maintaining excellent tolerability.

Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) like glycolic or lactic acid create another beneficial partnership with ellagic acid. The gentle exfoliation provided by AHAs helps remove dead skin cells containing excess melanin, accelerating visible improvement while enhancing penetration of ellagic acid into the epidermis. This combination is particularly useful for addressing both surface pigmentation and stimulating cell turnover for overall skin rejuvenation, though the potential for increased irritation means starting with lower concentrations of both ingredients is advisable.

However, some combinations require caution. Avoid using high concentrations of ellagic acid simultaneously with retinoids, as the combination may increase irritation potential, particularly for sensitive skin types. If incorporating both in your routine, consider using them at different times (for example, retinoids in the evening and ellagic acid in the morning) or on alternate days until tolerance is established.

For a comprehensive approach to hyperpigmentation incorporating ellagic acid, consider this strategy: Use a gentle AHA cleanser, followed by a vitamin C serum in the morning, and an ellagic acid treatment in the evening. Add niacinamide as a supporting ingredient in either your moisturizer or serum. Once weekly, incorporate an enzyme mask to enhance exfoliation and boost the penetration of your brightening ingredients. This multi-faceted approach addresses hyperpigmentation through various complementary mechanisms while maintaining skin health and comfort.

Potential Side Effects

While ellagic acid is generally well-tolerated by most skin types, awareness of potential side effects ensures safe and appropriate use. The most common reaction is mild irritation, including temporary redness, slight burning, or tingling upon application. These sensations typically subside within minutes and often diminish with continued use as the skin adapts to the ingredient. Those with particularly sensitive skin might experience more noticeable irritation, especially with higher concentrations (above 1%) or when ellagic acid is combined with other potentially sensitizing ingredients.

Some users report temporary dryness or tightness, particularly during initial use. This effect can usually be managed by incorporating appropriate hydrating products into the skincare routine or reducing application frequency until the skin adjusts. In most clinical studies, these mild irritation symptoms affected fewer than 10% of participants using standard concentrations of ellagic acid, making it significantly less irritating than many other depigmenting agents.

Warning signs that indicate you should discontinue use include persistent or worsening irritation, development of a rash or hives suggesting allergic reaction, or paradoxical darkening of pigmentation. While true allergic reactions to ellagic acid are rare, they're possible and would typically present as itchiness, swelling, or spreading redness beyond the application area. If these symptoms occur, discontinue use immediately and consult a dermatologist.

For most individuals, ellagic acid doesn't cause photosensitivity (increased sensitivity to sun exposure). However, because the ingredient is often used to treat conditions exacerbated by UV exposure, diligent sun protection remains essential when using any brightening product. Without proper sun protection, even the most effective pigment-reducing ingredients will yield disappointing results as new UV damage counteracts treatment benefits.

Pregnant and breastfeeding women should exercise caution with ellagic acid, as comprehensive safety data in these populations is limited. While the small amounts found naturally in fruits pose no concern when consumed, the higher concentrations in topical products lack specific safety studies in pregnancy. When in doubt, consult with a healthcare provider before using concentrated ellagic acid products during pregnancy or lactation.

It's worth noting that the favorable safety profile of ellagic acid is one of its significant advantages over more aggressive depigmenting agents. A comparative study found that while 29% of hydroquinone users experienced moderate to severe irritation requiring discontinued use, only 7% of ellagic acid users reported mild, transient irritation. This gentle nature makes ellagic acid suitable for long-term use in maintenance regimens after achieving desired results, without the concerns about tachyphylaxis (decreased effectiveness over time) or rebound hyperpigmentation that can occur with some other brightening ingredients.

Conclusion

Ellagic acid represents a compelling intersection of natural origin and scientific validation in the realm of skin brightening ingredients. Its ability to effectively reduce hyperpigmentation while providing powerful antioxidant protection offers a comprehensive approach to achieving more even, radiant skin tone. What distinguishes ellagic acid from many other depigmenting agents is its gentle yet effective action—addressing dark spots without the significant irritation risk or controversial safety profile associated with more aggressive treatments.

The multi-pathway approach of ellagic acid addresses hyperpigmentation through several complementary mechanisms simultaneously. By inhibiting tyrosinase, downregulating MITF, reducing melanin transfer, and neutralizing the free radicals that trigger pigment production, it provides a holistic solution to uneven skin tone rather than a single-target intervention. This comprehensive approach helps explain why many users report not just lightening of specific dark spots but overall improvements in skin clarity and luminosity with regular use.

Perhaps most valuable is ellagic acid's suitability for a wide range of skin types and concerns. From sensitive skin that can't tolerate traditional lightening ingredients to deeper skin tones prone to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, ellagic acid offers meaningful benefits with minimal risk. Its natural origin from pomegranates and other plant sources also appeals to those seeking cleaner, botanical-based skincare solutions without sacrificing efficacy.

Ready to explore whether ellagic acid might benefit your skin concerns? Consider incorporating products containing effective concentrations (0.5-1%) into your routine, ideally in serum form for maximum penetration. Start with once-daily application, gradually increasing to twice daily as tolerated, and maintain consistent use for at least 8-12 weeks to evaluate results. For more stubborn hyperpigmentation, combining ellagic acid with complementary ingredients like vitamin C or niacinamide may enhance outcomes while maintaining the gentle approach that makes this pomegranate-derived compound so valuable in modern skincare.

Did You Know?

• The name "ellagic" comes from the French word "galle" (spelled backward with an extra 'l') referring to oak galls, where the compound was first isolated in 1831.

• A single pomegranate contains up to 40mg of ellagic acid, primarily concentrated in the inedible white membrane surrounding the seeds rather than in the juicy arils themselves.

• Ellagic acid can be produced in the gut when beneficial bacteria metabolize ellagitannins from foods like walnuts and berries, potentially offering skin benefits from both topical application and dietary consumption.

Myths vs. Facts

• Myth: Natural brightening ingredients like ellagic acid can't provide results comparable to prescription-strength options. Fact: While results may develop more gradually, studies show that after 12 weeks of use, ellagic acid can provide comparable improvement to traditional agents like hydroquinone for certain types of hyperpigmentation, but with fewer side effects.
  
  

• Myth: Products must contain isolated, pure ellagic acid to be effective. Fact: While isolated ellagic acid ensures standardized concentration, well-formulated products containing pomegranate extract standardized for ellagic acid content can also deliver significant benefits, particularly when the extract contains complementary antioxidants that enhance overall effectiveness.
  
  

• Myth: Ellagic acid bleaches the skin, creating an unnatural appearance. Fact: Unlike some aggressive lightening ingredients, ellagic acid works by normalizing melanin production rather than bleaching existing pigment, resulting in a more natural evening of skin tone without creating an artificial or flat appearance.
  
  

Sustainability Notes

The environmental impact of ellagic acid in skincare varies significantly depending on its source and extraction methods. Pomegranate-derived ellagic acid offers substantial sustainability advantages when sourced responsibly. Many manufacturers now utilize the pomegranate rinds and membranes that would otherwise be discarded as waste in juice production, creating a valuable upcycled ingredient from what would become agricultural waste. This approach not only maximizes the use of harvested fruit but reduces the overall environmental footprint of both industries.

Sustainable production of ellagic acid increasingly employs water-based extraction methods rather than traditional processes using petroleum-derived solvents, significantly reducing environmental impact while producing cleaner extracts. Some progressive skincare companies have developed solvent-free extraction techniques that further minimize ecological impact.

From a farming perspective, pomegranate trees are relatively drought-tolerant once established, requiring less irrigation than many other crops in similar climates. They're typically long-lived, productive for 25+ years, and can thrive in marginal soils unsuitable for many other crops, reducing pressure on prime agricultural land.

When selecting ellagic acid products, look for brands that disclose their sourcing practices and extraction methods. Those using upcycled pomegranate waste or sustainably wildcrafted berry sources generally represent the most environmentally friendly options, particularly when combined with green chemistry extraction approaches and minimal packaging.