Chicoric acid sources, health benefits and uses

Chicoric acid is a derivative of caffeic acid and belongs to a compound group known as polyphenols. Chicoric acid was discovered in 1958 when two Italian scientists working on chicory leaves were able to identify a phenolic compound that was a tartaric acid ester of two caffeic acids.

The compound is stable in dry conditions but can be broken down by enzymes in moist conditions. Chicoric acid is found in great abundance in both the chicory plant and echinacea or purple cone flower. Other plants rich in chicoric acid include seagrass, horsetail, fern, lettuce and basil.

Medicinal uses for chicoric acid

An article posted on the Phytochemicals website noted that chicoric acid helps strengthen the immune system and protects the body against a host of illnesses. A vast number of in-vivo and in-vitro studies have shown that chicoric acid induces phagocytosis, a process that prompts white blood cells and lymphocytes to attack and eradicate pathogens.

Chicoric acid, especially those found in echinacea, is touted to provide protection against other infections such as colds and flu. However, heath experts have said that taking chicoric acid-rich echinacea should only be done at the onset of cold or flu symptoms or during the infection’s early phase.

Likewise, chicoric acid is touted for its ability to increase the levels of essential chemicals that fortify the immune system such as interferon, immunoglobulin and other compounds. The nutrient also possesses strong antioxidant properties that inhibit the oxidation of collagen and cells. Chicoric acid is found to mitigate the penetration of viruses in cells as well.

Chicoric acid is known to protect the brain against Alzheimer disease onset as well, an entry featured on The Daily Health website showed. In fact, an animal study has demonstrated that chicoric acid may inhibit the formation of amyloid plaques. These plaques are toxic clumps that form in the brain and serve as red flags for Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Amyloid plaques occur when proteins fold abnormally in the brain, which then results in subsequent memory loss.

As part of the study, Chinese researchers examined three groups of mice; two groups were given either lipopolysaccharide (LPS) alone or in combination with chicoric acid, while the other one was given nothing. Lipopolysaccharide is classified as an inflammation-causing endotoxin that triggers cognitive impairment by increasing beta-amyloid production, the researchers explained.

The results showed that mice treated with chicoric acid and LPS accomplished a series of behavioral tests in less time compared with the other groups. The findings suggest that chicoric acid relieves LPS-induced memory issues. According to the experts, this was due to the nutrient’s ability to block a major brain pathway that trigger amyloid plaque accumulation.

In addition, an article posted on the Mother Earth Living website discussed the potential of chicoric acid against human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). The entry noted that chicoric acid contain enzymes that readily block HIV enzymes that allow viruses to invade otherwise healthy cells and integrate viral DNA with the healthy cell’s DNA.

Body systems supported by chicoric acid

Chicoric acid effectively strengthens the immune system and keeps various infections at bay. Likewise, the beneficial nutrient is known to maintain brain health and stave off cognitive conditions. The compound’s anti-HIV properties show potential in promoting reproductive health.

Where to learn more

Summary

Chicoric acid helps prevent the onset of various infections such as cold and flu.

Chicoric acid mitigates the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.

Chicoric acid shows potential in addressing HIV infection.

Chicoric acid is particularly beneficial in maintaining a healthy immune system.

Chicoric acid helps maintain healthy brain function and may enchance reproductive health.

Sources include:

Phytochemicals.info

NCBI.NLM.NIH.gov

MotherEarthLiving.com

TheDailyHealth.co.uk