Role of Sumac (Rhus coriaria L.) in the management of metabolic syndrome and related disorders: Focus on NAFLD-atherosclerosis interplay

Sumac (Rhus coriaria L.) is a commonly used spice in the Mediterranean region and considered as healthy food ingredients. The beneficial value of sumac is well documented in folk medicine. Accumulating data explored the phytochemical, nutritional and therapeutic proprieties suggesting sumac as a potential functional food. Here, we discuss the general and scientific aspects of sumac. Sumac is rich in different polyphenolic compounds such as flavonoids, tannins, and phenolic acids. The potential therapeutic effects of sumac have been studied in various cellular and animal models, as well as in human. These reports suggest that Sumac has potential effect against oxidative stress, inflammation, obesity, hyperglycemia, hypercholesterolemia, and hyperlipidemia, which represent key pathogenic mechanisms contributing to cardio-metabolic, liver, and cancer diseases. Clinical studies using sumac or its major compounds, suggest that this herbal product may represent a useful therapeutic tool in the management of metabolic-related conditions such as liver-atherosclerosis complications.