Document Type : Review Article
Authors
1
Student Research Committee, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran,
2
Department of Pharmacodynamics and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran,
3
Pharmacology
Abstract
Objective: Metabolic syndrome is a medical condition identified by the presence of a cluster of factors including hyperglycemia, inflammation, hypertriglyceridemia, dyslipidemia, coagulopathies, abdominal obesity, and hypertension. Chicory (Cichorium intybus L.) is a promising candidate for managing metabolic syndrome due to its rich content of bioactive compounds such as inulin, sesquiterpene lactones, and polyphenols which exhibit anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and insulin-sensitizing properties. This review aims to provide a comprehensive literature review regarding its mechanistic pathways and efficacy in the management of metabolic syndrome.
Materials and Methods: This narrative review examined studies published in Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar up to August 2024.
Results: Chicory exhibits anti-inflammatory, hypolipidemic, and hypotensive properties. The hypotensive property of chicory is associated with inhibiting oxidative stress, mediating vascular smooth muscle response, and regulating superoxide anion production. In addition, chicory's hypolipidemic capacity is linked to reduced acetyl-CoA carboxylase enzyme activity, as well as inhibitory effects on hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA reductase and visfatin. Furthermore, it mitigates diabetes and obesity by enhancing glucose metabolism and inhibiting “Nucleotide-Binding Domain, Leucine-Rich–Containing Family, Pyrin Domain–Containing-3” (NLRP3) inflammasome activation, which in turn decreases Interleukin (IL)-1β release. Additionally, pro-inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress which are involved in fat storage and hepatic triglyceride accumulation, are inhibited.
Conclusion: Numerous studies suggest chicory’s potential benefits for individuals with metabolic syndrome. To fully understand its potential, we need clinical trials to confirm its efficacy, safety, and optimal dosage, thereby bridging the gap between research and practical healthcare solutions.
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