Phytochemical, Antioxidant, Anti-Microbial, and Pharmaceutical Properties of Sumac (Rhus coriaria L.) and Its Genetic Diversity

Abstract

Rhus coriaria L., commonly known as sumac, is a shrub of the Anacardiaceae family present in various subtropical and temperate regions of the world. Considering the rich array of functional and nutraceutical ingredients, sumac extracts are an underutilized source of health-promoting dietary ingredients. For example, sumac is a spice with remarkable antioxidant activity thanks to the high presence of phenolic compounds. In addition, sumac extracts also possess antimicrobial activity and exhibit antidiabetic and hypoglycemic properties. Based on the scientific records retrieved in reliable citation databases (Scopus and Web of Science), this review comprehensively offers research results on sumac with a focus on the phytochemical profiles, the antimicrobial and antioxidant properties of the extracts, the pharmaceutical uses, and the genetic diversity. We discuss that the use of sumac as a climate-resilient tree should be promoted to diversify the food basket by leveraging on its multiple health benefits and also to reverse the abandonment of marginal lands under low irrigation.

Effect of High-Powered Ultrasound on Bioactive Compounds and Microbiological Stability of Juices—Review

“…It is important not to use synthetic substances (preservatives or dyes) that may affect the final quality of the products [20,21]. Careful observance of production processes allows for the preservation of the richness of vitamins, minerals and other nutrients present in raw materials [22][23][24].…”

The Effect of the Addition of Powdered Sumac (Rhus coriaria L.) and Cold Plasma Treatment on the Quality of Carrot Juice

“…Sumac also contains mainly monounsaturated oleic acid (omega-9) and polyunsaturated linolenic acid (omega-6). Micronutrients include certain amounts of vitamins C, B 1 , B 2 and B 6 , as well as potassium, calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, manganese and copper [15][16][17][18][19]. This combination of nutrients could have beneficial properties supporting the defense against free radicals, which, according to the published literature, are partly responsible for formation of diseases such as cancer, diabetes or heart problems [20].…”

Effects of the powdered fruit of Rhus coriaria L. addition on quality attributes based on total polyphenols content of smoothie during storage

“…The finished spice is a granular, red-burgundy powder. It is distinguished by a characteristic smell and a sour and slightly fruity aftertaste, which gives the dishes a distinct character [9,10]. Sumac has potential antiviral properties and can be used in complementary therapy to prevent infections and enhance immunity [11][12][13].…”