Research Progress on the Homologous Effects of Cichorium glandulosum Boiss. et Huet on Medicine and Food: A Review

Cichorium glandulosum Boiss. et Huet is a genus of chicory in the family of Asteraceae, and it is a “medicine food homology” herbal medicine, which has the effect of detoxifying heat, diuretic and swelling, and strengthening the stomach. This paper reviews the chemical composition, pharmacological effects, and practical applications of Cichorium glandulosum Boiss. et Huet and provides a comprehensive account of its role in human health and diet, pharmacological activities, and toxicity. Cichorium glandulosum Boiss. et Huet, “medicine food homology” herbal medicine, is often widely used in compound formulations with functions such as clearing the liver, promoting gallbladder, and enhancing immunity. Previous studies have found that multiple chemical components have been isolated and identified from Cichorium glandulosum Boiss. et Huet, mainly including 89 compounds such as flavonoids, terpenoids, phenolic acids, polysaccharides, and phenylpropanoids. Meanwhile, the extract has various biological activities, including hepatoprotective and hypoglycemic, regulating blood lipids, aiding digestion, anticancer, regulating intestinal microbiota and immune function, antioxidant, and has been proven in both in vivo and in vitro studies. As an important plant resource, the current research focuses on the traditional efficacy of Cichorium glandulosum Boiss. et Huet. The chemical composition of this genus of plants is complex and their pharmacological activities are diverse. Further in-depth studies on the molecular mechanisms and toxic side effects of its specific compounds in the organism are needed. Therefore, this review provides a reference for the development and utilization of Cichorium glandulosum Boiss. et Huet.