Summary Properties and uses
Table of Contents
1. The chemical composition
Garbar sumac has long been used in traditional eastern medicine. It has been used to treat a variety of ailments, including: diarrhea, ulcers, bleeding, difficult to heal wounds, as well as vision problems. Its health effects are due to the presence of numerous bioactive compounds. In a phytochemical study, polyphenols, flavonoids, phenolic acids, herbicides and essential oils have been detected. Among them, kerosene, isocverine, acetic acid, gallic acid, methyl acid, kemferol, tancarine and dimethylene have been identified.2. Health properties
Due to the content of bioactive ingredients, Rhus coriaria has a high antioxidant activity. Studies have shown that the extract from this plant contributes to the reduction of oxidative stress by fighting free radicals. These properties are mainly due to the polyphenols, flavonoids, anthocyanins, phenolic acids (especially blue gallous acid) and organic acids. Thanks to their antioxidant properties, they help to remove toxins, prevent the development of many civilization diseases, and also slow the process of aging the organism.3. It has anti-cancer properties
The antioxidant activity of sumac is associated with anti-cancer activity polyphenols and flavonoids in it inhibit the development of cancer cells and contribute to their destruction as a result of apoptosis (cell death). Studies have shown that Rhus musculatura prevents their growth and inhibits the process of angiogenesis, i.e. the formation of new blood vessels in the prostate organs.4. It has antimicrobial properties
The essential oil from the fruit of this plant has been studied for its effects on the bacteria Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus subtilis. The active ingredients contained in colic oil have been found to inhibit the growth of bacteria and also contribute to their destruction. These results suggest the use of eucalyptus oil in the treatment of certain bacterial infections (M. Zha and Sum. 2018). In another study, it was noted that the ethanol extract obtained from the seeds of Escheria aureus can also be used as an antibacterial agent for certain antibodies, m. in., and in. in.5. It has anti-inflammatory properties
Plant extracts with high antioxidant activity may also exhibit anti-inflammatory effects. Reactive forms of oxygen initiate the destruction of cells by stimulating the release of inflammatory substances. Antioxidant properties are therefore associated with inflammation-reducing activity. The main role of flavonoids (such as gallic acid, quercetin and kemferol) and phenolic compounds can also be played. A study was conducted to determine the effect of the extract on the reduction of the pathological processes associated with the inflammation of the dead intestinal tract.6. It has anti-diabetic properties
In one study, Rhus coriaria fruit extract was shown to reduce blood glucose levels by about 31% in a group of diabetic rats (A. Doğan, I. Çelik 2016). Sumaka fruit contains many bioactive compounds which, by blocking the absorption of glucose into the intestine, lower its levels in the blood. These include: carbohydrates, quercetin, isocyclic, citric acid, elga, gallic acid, and garlic.7. Cholesterol-lowering properties
Rhus coriaria fruit extract has been studied in rats fed a high-cholesterol diet. Positive effects of the extract have been observed in reducing lipid and cholesterol levels in blood serum (M. Shafiei, M. Nobakht, A. Moazzam 2011; H. R. Soltani, et al., 2017). Blood liver and kidney function has also been improved (M. Nagibhus 2017). In addition to analyses in animal samples, there have been studies involving patients who have had no hypercholecular extract levels.8. Applications
Sumak is mainly used as a spice It has a purple color and a slightly moist and sticky consistency. It is prepared by spraying dried fruits. The flavor of the spice is defined as acidic, fruit-bearing, slightly salty and refreshing resembles the combination of a ripe lemon skin with salt, so it can be used as its substitute. In Middle Eastern cuisine, sumak is most commonly used for grilled foods.9. Summary
The properties of sumaka have been known for a long time, but in Poland this spice is not yet widely used. Given its flavor and health effects, it is worth adding sumaka to the foods consumed. The spice can be found in stores with oriental and organic food, is also available in online stores.