Nutrients, Vol. 17, Pages 3382: Phytochemical Insights and Industrial Applications of Camellia japonica Leaves: A Focus on Sustainable Utilization
Nutrients doi: 10.3390/nu17213382
Authors:
Ezgi Nur Yuksek
Miguel A. Prieto
Antia G. Pereira
In response to the increasing interest in medicinal plants, researchers have called for the investigation of underexplored, widely distributed species, such as those within the Camellia genus. Camellia japonica L., though not native to Galicia (NW Spain), is widely cultivated there, primarily for ornamental purposes. Recent phytochemical analyses of C. japonica leaves have identified a variety of bioactive compounds, with phenolic compounds being the most abundant, along with carotenoids, terpenoids and fatty acids. These molecules exhibit a range of biological activities, including antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer effects. Nonetheless, certain constituents, such as saponins, triterpenes, and tannins, may exhibit anti-nutritional or mild toxic effects under specific conditions. This review specifically examines the bioactive compounds found in C. japonica leaves and their associated health benefits. Furthermore, it underscores the need for innovative approaches to develop sustainable industrial processes for utilizing C. japonica leaves, with potential applications in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries.
In response to the increasing interest in medicinal plants, researchers have called for the investigation of underexplored, widely distributed species, such as those within the Camellia genus. Camellia japonica L., though not native to Galicia (NW Spain), is widely cultivated there, primarily for ornamental purposes. Recent phytochemical analyses of C. japonica leaves have identified a variety of bioactive compounds, with phenolic compounds being the most abundant, along with carotenoids, terpenoids and fatty acids. These molecules exhibit a range of biological activities, including antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer effects. Nonetheless, certain constituents, such as saponins, triterpenes, and tannins, may exhibit anti-nutritional or mild toxic effects under specific conditions. This review specifically examines the bioactive compounds found in C. japonica leaves and their associated health benefits. Furthermore, it underscores the need for innovative approaches to develop sustainable industrial processes for utilizing C. japonica leaves, with potential applications in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries. Read More