Phytochemical Content and Potential Health Applications of Pecan [Carya illinoinensis (Wangenh) K. Koch] Nutshell

Abstract

Background: The pecan nutshell contains phytochemicals with various biological activities that are potentially useful in the prevention or treatment of diseases, such as cancer, diabetes, and metabolic imbalances associated with heart diseases. Objective: The aim of this study is to update this topic by means of a literature review and include those studies that contribute to the knowledge of the chemical composition and biological activities of pecan nutshell, particularly those related to the therapeutic potential against some chronic degenerative diseases associated with oxidative stress. Method: Exhaustive and detailed review of the existing literature was conducted using electronic databases. Conclusion: The pecan nutshell is a promising natural product with pharmaceutical uses in various diseases. However, additional research related to the assessment of efficient extraction methods and characterization, particularly the evaluation of the mechanisms of action in new in vivo models, is necessary to confirm these findings and development of new drugs with therapeutic use.