ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Condensed tannin

Condensed tannins are substances found in some plants that help protect them from being eaten by animals or insects. Think of them as a kind of natural defense mechanism that plants have to protect themselves.

When animals or insects try to eat a plant with condensed tannins, these substances can make it difficult for them to digest the plant material. This is because condensed tannins bind to proteins in the animal's digestive system, making them harder to break down.

In some cases, condensed tannins can even be poisonous to animals if they consume too much of them. However, in smaller amounts, these substances can have some benefits for animal health, such as reducing the risk of certain diseases.

Overall, condensed tannins are an important part of nature's balance between plants and animals, helping to protect plants from being over-eaten while also providing some benefits for animal health.