BIOACTIVE COMPOUNDS OF BUCKWHEAT (FAGOPYRUM ESCULENTUM) IN DETOXIFICATION PROCESSES: A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW

Abstract

The growing prevalence of environmental pollution and the extensive use of synthetic chemicals in food production and packaging have led to increased accumulation of toxic substances in the human body. This study evaluates the detoxification potential of buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum) as a functional food, with a focus on its phytochemical composition and associated mechanisms of action. A thorough review of existing literature was conducted to assess the bioactive compounds present in buckwheat and their contributions to oxidative stress mitigation and toxin clearance. Buckwheat is particularly rich in flavonoids such as rutin and quercetin, along with phenolic acids, essential vitamins, and trace minerals. These constituents exhibit potent antioxidant activity, modulate key detoxification enzymes-such as glutathione-S-transferases and cytochrome P450 isoforms-and may influence epigenetic regulators, notably through activation of the sirtuin (SIRT1) pathway. Both in vitro and in vivo findings support the role of buckwheat-derived phytochemicals in enhancing cellular defense against xenobiotics. Overall, buckwheat emerges as a promising candidate for incorporation into functional foods and nutraceuticals aimed at preventing toxin-induced health disorders. However, clinical validation is necessary to confirm its efficacy in human populations.