Garden cress seed: A review of its functional and medicinal properties

Abstract

Recently, there has been a significant increase in global interest in medicinal plants and herbs owing to their therapeutic properties. Lepidium sativum, commonly known as garden cress, is a herbaceous plant native to southwest Asia and Egypt and is cultivated worldwide. Garden cress seeds (GCS) are rich in macronutrients, including essential fatty acids, protein, and micronutrients such as vitamins and minerals. Additionally, they contain various phytochemicals, such as glucosinolates, phenolic acids, terpenes, flavonoids, tocopherols, and alkaloids. Since ancient times, GCS has been used to treat conditions such as asthma, diarrhea, muscle pain, inflammation, bone fractures, and skin-related problems. These seeds exhibit numerous therapeutic properties, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, hepatoprotective, anti-hyperglycemic, cardio-protective, and hypocholesterolemic effects. Due to their nutrient-dense composition and health-promoting properties, GCS is utilized in various functional food products to combat malnutrition and enhance overall health. This review provides an overview of the most recent literature on the nutritional significance, therapeutic properties, and functional food applications of GCS. Despite their nutritional importance and health benefits, GCS is an underutilized crop. Further research is needed to explore and fully understand the pharmacological and medicinal properties of GCS, as well as to develop innovative methods for incorporating them into various food products.