Nutritional Excellence of Amaranthus: Functional Foods and Protective Health Benefits

Abstract

Amaranthus represents a significant medicinal plant with extensive traditional therapeutic applications across various pathological conditions. Extracts derived from this botanical source demonstrate multiple beneficial properties, including anti-diarrheal, gastroprotective, antifungal, and additional therapeutic activities. The foliage of Amaranthus species has been traditionally employed in diabetes management protocols. Ethanol-based preparations from Amaranthus plants exhibit renal protective effects, specifically safeguarding nephron integrity from degenerative processes. Beyond medicinal applications, these plants hold considerable ornamental value and serve as valuable protein sources in nutrition. The therapeutic potential of Amaranthus is attributed to its rich phytochemical profile, containing bioactive compounds such as steroids, flavonoids, saponins, terpenoids, polyphenolic substances, and tannins. These secondary metabolites contribute significantly to the plant's efficacy in treating diverse medical conditions through various pharmacological mechanisms.

Key words: Amaranthus Plant, Beneficial Effect