Therapeutic Uses and Pharmacological Properties of Shallot (Allium ascalonicum): A Systematic Review

Abstract

BackgroundShallot (Allium ascalonicum L.) is a traditional plant species used throughout the world both for culinary purposes and as a folk remedy. To date (i.e., April 2022), there is no report on the main pharmacological activities exerted by shallot preparations and/or extracts.Scope and ApproachThe aim of this study was to comprehensively review the pharmacological activities exerted by shallot, with rigorous inclusion and exclusion criteria based on the scientific rigor of studies. Prisma guidelines were followed to perform the literature search.Key Findings and ConclusionsThe literature search yielded 2,410 articles of which 116 passed the required rigorous criteria for inclusion in this review. The extracts exert a potent antioxidant activity both in vitro and in vivo, as well as a strong inhibitory capacity on various pathogens with relevant implications for public health. Moreover, shallot can be used as adjuvant therapy in cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, cancer prevention, and other non-communicable diseases associated with inflammatory and oxidative pathways. Future studies investigating the chemical composition of this species, as well as the molecular mechanisms involved in the empirically observed pharmacological actions are required.

Physicochemical, microbial, and sensory characteristics of yogurt with Persian shallot (Allium hirtifolium Boiss) and probiotic bacteria

“…Allium family compounds have been shown to possess inhibitory activity against a broad range of microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, viruses, and parasites. Allium‐derived antimicrobial compounds inhibit microorganisms by interacting with sulfhydryl (SH) groups of target proteins (Moldovan et al., 2022 ).…”

“…Allium-derived antimicrobial compounds inhibit microorganisms by interacting with sulfhydryl (SH) groups of target proteins (Moldovan et al, 2022).…”

Gelatin/carboxymethyl cellulose edible films: modification of physical properties by different hydrocolloids and application in beef preservation in combination with shallot waste powder

“…Allicin, thiosulfinates, and their derivatives are responsible for the broad-spectrum action of Allium species against bacteria, fungi, viruses, and parasites, since they react with the sulfhydryl group of the functional proteins of these organisms. 67 …”

Organic Fertilizer Alleviates Salt Stress in Shallot by Modulating Plant Physiological Responses

“…Flavonoids not only provide protection against harmful abiotic factors but also facilitate interactions with other plants and microorganisms due to their physical and biochemical properties (Khalid et al, 2019). A systematic review of the therapeutic uses of shallots highlight their high flavonoid content and antioxidant activities (Moldovan et al, 2022). Flavonoids have a role in frost hardiness and drought resistance and play a functional role in heat acclimatisation of plants.…”