Literature analysis on asparagus roots and review of its functional characterizations

Abstract

Asparagus root (AR) is utilized globally as a traditional herbal medicine because it contains various bioactive compounds, such as polyphenols, flavonoids, saponins, and minerals. The composition profiles of AR are strongly affected by its botanical and geographical origins. Although minerals and heavy metals are minor constituents of AR, they play a crucial role in determining its quality and efficacy. A comprehensive classification of AR, its phytochemistry, and its pharmacology were reviewed and interpreted herein. Potentially eligible articles (in English) were identified through an electronic search of the Web of Science database (2010–2022) and Google (2001–2022). We used the primary search term “Asparagus roots” combined with the words “pharmacology,” “bioactive compounds,” “physicochemical properties,” and “health benefits” to find the relevant literature. We screened the titles, keywords, and abstracts of the publications obtained from the database. A full copy of the article was obtained for further assessment if deemed appropriate. Different asparagus species might potentially be used as herbal medicines and functional foods. Phytochemical studies have revealed the presence of various bioactive compounds as valuable secondary metabolites. The dominant class of bioactive compounds in AR is flavonoids. Furthermore, AR displayed significant pharmacological effects, such as antioxidant, antimicrobial, antiviral, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and antidiabetic effects, as shown in animal and human studies. This review provides a valuable resource to enable a thorough assessment of the profile of Asparagus root as a functional ingredient for the pharmaceutical and food industries. In addition, it is anticipated that this review will provide information to healthcare professionals seeking alternative sources of critical bioactive compounds.

A Review of the Pro-Health Activity of Asparagus officinalis L. and Its Components

“…Fluorescence microscopy, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and LC-MS confirmed the purity of rutin to be 97.6%. More information about the phytochemical characteristics of A. officinalis have been described in other review papers [2,22,24].…”

Antidepressant activity of fresh young shoot essential oil of Asparagus officinalis L. in mice

“…In traditional medicine edible herbs such as Asparagus have widely become important ingredients in functional foods and drugs. The roots of Asparagus officinalis L. are used to promote improvement in physical and mental health [10][11][12]. Aqueous extracts from Asparagus officinalis L. stems in a study protected learning and memory function in mice [13].…”