Leek

Leek, a vegetable belonging to the Allium genus (which also includes garlic and onion), is recognized for its nutritional and therapeutic significance. It contains principal bioactive compounds such as organosulfur compounds, flavonoids, and essential micronutrients. These phytochemicals exhibit potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer activities. Leek-derived compounds, including extracellular vesicles (CL-EVs) from Chinese leek and extracts from Egyptian leek, are being investigated for their potential in preventing and managing chronic diseases like cancer, diabetes, and cardiovascular disorders, as well as ameliorating sarcopenia and depressive-like behaviors. Studies indicate that leek components modulate oxidative stress and inflammatory pathways, enhance metabolic and immune resilience, and influence mitochondrial biogenesis and autophagy.

Other names

Allium porrum L.Chinese leekEgyptian leekAllium ampeloprasumAllium ampeloprasum var. kurratwild leekrampsAllium tricoccum Aiton