Polyphenol profile and content in wild and cultivated Cynara cardunculus L.

Submitted: 24 February 2012
Accepted: 26 May 2012
Published: 31 July 2012
Abstract Views: 2940
PDF: 1249
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The species Cynara cardunculus L. is native to the Mediterranean Basin, where its commercial production makes a significant contribution to the agricultural economy. It contains phenolic acids and flavones, which play an important role in diet, because of their beneficial effects on human health, and in industrial processing, due to the browning phenomenon. The quantitative and qualitative profile of these compounds is affected by different factors, such as genotype, environmental conditions, crop management and processing procedures. As a consequence, these are relevant for defining the quality of the product. Therefore, our aim was to review the main factors that influence polyphenol biosynthesis and degradation in C. cardunculus. From available data in literature, the genetic background appears to be the main factor, followed by environmental effects. However, crop management also could be a valuable tool to enhance the polyphenol content. C. cardunculus also provides substantial quantities of polyphenol-rich by-products, which could be considered as a natural source of health-promoting compounds and an added value for the farming business.

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Supporting Agencies

this research was supported by CAR-VARVI project (MiPAF).

How to Cite

Pandino, G., Lombardo, S., Williamson, G., & Mauromicale, G. (2012). Polyphenol profile and content in wild and cultivated Cynara cardunculus L. Italian Journal of Agronomy, 7(3), e35. https://doi.org/10.4081/ija.2012.e35