Abstract

UNLOCKING THE POWER OF BROCCOLI: ANTI-INFLAMMATORY AND THERAPEUTIC POTENTIAL OF BRASSICA OLERACEA VAR. ITALIC

Nallapareddy Saipratap Reddy*, Krishnaveni Mannubolu, Krishnagiri Deepthi, Mogal Karimulla Baig, Sanagapu Himabindu and Lakshmi Prasanna

Abstract

Broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. italica) is a nutrient-rich cruciferous vegetable known for its potent bioactive compounds, which exhibit significant anti-inflammatory and therapeutic properties. This review explores the diverse pharmacological benefits of broccoli, emphasizing its role in managing inflammation-related disorders and other health conditions. Sulforaphane, glucosinolates, flavonoids, and phenolic compounds present in broccoli contribute to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anticancer, and cardioprotective effects. These bioactive compounds modulate key inflammatory pathways, such as NF-κB and Nrf2, reducing oxidative stress and cytokine production. The therapeutic potential of broccoli extends beyond inflammation to include antimicrobial, neuroprotective, and metabolic benefits. Studies indicate its effectiveness in preventing chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disorders, neurodegenerative conditions, and metabolic syndromes. The extraction methods, including solvent extraction, steam distillation, methanol extraction, maceration, and fluid extraction, play a crucial role in isolating and maximizing the bioactivity of these compounds. This review provides an in-depth analysis of recent research on the anti-inflammatory and therapeutic potential of broccoli-based formulations, highlighting their applications in modern medicine and functional foods. Understanding the mechanisms of action and optimizing formulation strategies can enhance the clinical utility of broccoli-derived compounds. Future research should focus on novel delivery systems and clinical trials to validate its efficacy in disease management.

Keywords: Broccoli, anti-inflammatory, sulforaphane, glucosinolates, therapeutic potential.