Identification of 2″-galloylated flavonol 3-o-glycosides accumulating in developing leaves of persimmon.

Introduction: Dried leaves of persimmon, traditionally consumed as a herbal tea in Japan, contain bioactive galloylated flavonol glycosides. Investigation of the seasonal compositional changes in these compounds is important for determining the optimum harvest time.

Objective: The three objectives were: (1) to elucidate the compositional changes of the flavonol glycosides in persimmon leaves collected in different seasons; (2) to develop an efficient method for separation of the constituents; and (3) to compare their antioxidant activities.