Major phenolic compounds in Korean red pine (Pinus densiflora Sieb. et Zucc.) bark and their potential health benefits

The Korean red pine (Pinus densiflora Sieb. et Zucc.) is the pine species most widely distributed in Korea, where it traditionally is used in food, medicine, architecture, and furniture. Despite its extensive use, much of the Korean red pine bark (KRPB) is discarded as a by-product of the wood industry. However, growing attention is being given to its health-promoting potential, largely due to its high content of phenolic compounds. This review introduces the Korean red pine and provides an overview of the structure and potential health benefits of major phenolic compounds in KRPB and a description of the health-promoting effects of KRPB extract. It highlights the functional value of these major phenolic compounds, which could be used to develop functional foods or pharmaceuticals. The insights presented here will not only guide future scientific research but also encourage the exploration of KRPB as a sustainable source of bioactive compounds.