Bioactive components and biological properties of cornelian cherry (Cornus mas L.): A comprehensive review

Abstract

Today, medicinal plants are very popular due to preventing many diseases and associated complications. Cornus mas L. (CM), is a member of Cornaceae family, is widely used in folk medicine for the treatment of a wide range of diseases such as diabetes, digestive ailments, anemia, liver and renal diseases, among others. The aim of this review is to present an overview of CM’s biological properties and usefulness as a nutritional supplement. CM fruits contain high levels of anthocyanins and iridoids while the leaves contain higher phenolic acids. The therapeutic effects of CM include anti (-oxidant, -microbial, -diabetic, -atherosclerosis, -obesity, -glaucoma); (cyto-, neuro-, cardio-, liver-, renal-) protective; hypo (-lipidemia and -tensive) have been found in reported studies, but clinical studies are limited. CM is rich in polyphenols, vitamin C and minerals, resulting in it being a “superfood”. Large-population and long-term clinical studies are needed to evaluate the biological activities of CM.