Abstract
Kale (Brassica oleracea L. var. acephala DC) is a popular cruciferous vegetable originating from Central Asia, and is well known for its abundant bioactive compounds. This review discusses the main kale phytochemicals and emphasizes molecules of nutraceutical interest, including phenolics, carotenoids, and glucosinolates. The preventive and therapeutic properties of kale against chronic and degenerative diseases are highlighted according to the most recent in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies reported. Likewise, it is well known that the application of controlled abiotic stresses can be used as an effective tool to increase the content of phytochemicals with health-promoting properties. In this context, the effect of different abiotic stresses (saline, exogenous phytohormones, drought, temperature, and radiation) on the accumulation of secondary metabolites in kale is also presented. The information reviewed in this article can be used as a starting point to further validate through bioassays the effects of abiotically stressed kale on the prevention and treatment of chronic and degenerative diseases.
Highlights
Numerous studies have reported that diets high in vegetables are highly correlated with a reduced risk of developing common chronic diseases [1]
The health benefits of kale related to its main phytochemicals were discussed based on recent in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies
Different controlled abiotic stress conditions that affect the content of secondary metabolites of nutraceutical importance in kale were discussed
Summary
Numerous studies have reported that diets high in vegetables are highly correlated with a reduced risk of developing common chronic diseases [1]. The content of primary and secondary metabolites can be modified by diverse factors, including the development stage, harvest season, environmental conditions, postharvest handling, and variety [8]. The manipulation of these metabolites can be used to control levels of desirable compounds and improve plant quality. The information presented in this review is based on recent literature (2016–2021) found on Google Scholar using the following combination of key words: kale + nutraceuticals, kale + abiotic stress, kale + carotenoids, kale + abiotic stresses + secondary metabolites, kale + saline stress, kale + phytohormone, kale + drought stress, kale + temperature stress, kale + ultraviolet radiation, and kale +
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