Applied Sciences (Jun 2024)

Bioactive Compounds, Health Benefits and Food Applications of Artichoke (<i>Cynara scolymus</i> L.) and Artichoke By-Products: A Review

  • Pablo Ayuso,
  • Jhazmin Quizhpe,
  • María de los Ángeles Rosell,
  • Rocío Peñalver,
  • Gema Nieto

DOI
https://doi.org/10.3390/app14114940
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 14, no. 11
p. 4940

Abstract

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Cynara scolymus L. is an herbaceous plant originally from the western Mediterranean area, with Italy, Spain and France the main being producers. Both the edible flowering head and the by-products generated during processing (outer bracts, leaves and stem) are characterized by a high content of essential vitamins, minerals and bioactive compounds. In particular, the leaves represent a great source of phenolic acids derived from caffeoylquinic acid or flavonoids such as luteonin and apigenin, while the head and stem contain a high content of soluble and insoluble dietary fiber, especially inulin and pectins. Its high content of bioactive compounds provides artichoke a high antioxidant power due to the modulation effect of the transcription factor Nrf2, which may lead to protection against cardiovascular, hepatic and neurological disorders. The potential use of artichoke as a functional ingredient in the food industry may be promising in terms of improving the nutritional value of products, as well as preventing oxidation and extending the shelf-life of processed foods due to its antimicrobial activity. This review aims to provide an overview of the nutritional qualities of Cynara scolymus L. and its by-products, focusing on the possible health effects and potential applications in food products as a higher-value-added alternative ingredient.

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