The Versatile Strawberry: A Modern Superfruit With Ancient Protective Powers: A Review

Abstract

The strawberry (Fragaria ananassa) has gained significant attention in recent scientific literature for its profound health-promoting properties, extending beyond its traditional nutritional value. This review synthesizes findings from recent studies to highlight the strawberry's protective effects against various physiological insults, including chemical toxicity and metabolic disorders. Its therapeutic efficacy is largely attributed to its rich phytochemical composition, particularly polyphenols like anthocyanins and ellagic acid, which exert potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic actions. This literature review analyzes how strawberry extracts contribute to the mitigation of oxidative stress, modulation of gene expression, and enhancement of endogenous antioxidant defense systems in vital organs such as the liver, brain, and reproductive system. We collected data from various scientific databases, including Google Scholar, PubMed, Springer, and Science Direct. The results underscore the strawberry's role as a modern superfruit, leveraging ancient protective powers for contemporary health challenges.