digera muricata

Digera muricata, commonly known as Tartara or False Amaranth, is an edible herb widely utilized in traditional medicine across Africa and Asia. Recent pharmacological research has focused on its phytosterol-rich extracts, particularly those containing sitosterol, for their potential in treating atherosclerosis and inflammatory conditions. The extract demonstrates significant anti-atherogenic activity by modulating macrophage polarization, reducing oxidative stress (ROS and nitric oxide), and inhibiting lipid peroxidation. Mechanistically, it downregulates pro-inflammatory and pro-atherogenic mediators such as iNOS, COX-2, MMP9, and various cytokines (IL-6, IL-1β), while upregulating anti-atherogenic factors like PPARγ and MRC1. Additionally, it helps maintain mitochondrial membrane potential and cell membrane integrity in macrophages challenged by atherogenic stimuli.

Other names

TartaraDigera muricata L.False Amaranth