Scientists believe chemicals found in coffee could be used to manufacture new drugs for heart disease and insomnia. They are focussing their efforts on substances called chlorogenic acids. It is believed that these compounds offset the effect of another ingredient of coffee, caffeine.
Caffeine is a well-known stimulant that can set the heart racing, and prevent sleep.
Laboratory tests show chlorogenic acids act as antioxidants, mopping up destructive free radical molecules which contribute to heart disease. Some also appear to influence a chemical, adenosine, that controls the rate at which nerves transmit messages. Caffeine causes the heart to pound by blocking the action of adenosine. They believe the compounds also have potential for treating epilepsy, hyperactivity and sleep problems. It will not be used for any other purpose whatsoever.