A review of phytochemistry, metabolite changes, and medicinal uses of the common sunflower seed and sprouts (Helianthus annuus L.)

• Published in: BMC chemistry Vol. 11; no. 1; p. 95
• Main Authors: Guo, Shuangshuang, Ge, Yan, Na Jom, Kriskamol
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Cham Springer International Publishing 29.09.2017; Springer Nature B.V; BMC
• Subjects: Biological activities; Biological Chemistry; Chemical constituents; Chemistry; Chemistry and Materials Science; Chemistry/Food Science; Flavonoids; Flowers & plants; Germination; Medical research; Medicine; Metabolites; Nutrients; Nutritive value; Phenolic acids; Phytochemicals; Review; Seeds; Sunflower seeds; Biological activities; Chemical constituents; Metabolites; Sunflower seeds; Nutritive value
• ISSN: 1752-153X; 1752-153X; 2661-801X
• DOI: 10.1186/s13065-017-0328-7

The sunflower ( Helianthus annuus L.) seed and sprout is a ubiquitous crop with abundant nutrients and biological activities. This review summarizes the nutritional and medical importance currently recognized but under-researched concerning both seed and sprout highlighting the potential benefits of their phytochemical constituents including phenolic acids, flavonoids and tocopherols. Furthermore, the dynamic metabolite changes which occur during germination and biological activities are evaluated. The aim is to provide scientific evidence for improving the dietary and pharmaceutical applications of this common but popular crop as a functional food.