Prospects for the Use of Spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.) Containing Phytoecdysteroids and Polyphenols

Background: Phytoadaptogens, biologically active compounds increasing the nonspecific resistance of the human organism, are well known for the prevention and correction of stressful conditions. Phytoadaptogens group includes phytoecdysteroids and polyphenols, that are characterized by the multiplicity of pharmacological effects in combination with the low toxicity. According to literature data, spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.) is a promising source of these compounds. This work aims to systematize data on the chemical composition of biologically active compounds of spinach, that determine its adaptogenic properties and concentration methods in the spinach processing for use in specialized foods and dietary supplements. Materials and Methods: Manifold electronic search engines, electronic databases, and libraries such as Google, Google scholar, Crossref, Indian Science Abstracts, Emerging Sources Citation Index, e-Library, Scopus, Web of Science, Pubmed, Chemical Abstracts, Index Copernicus, scientific literature had been searched and data obtained. Results: Botanical characteristics of spinach, main cultivation conditions, the latest data on the chemical composition of raw spinach material cultivars and extracts based on it are presented in this study. Schemes for the obtaining of products enriched with polyphenols and ecdysteroids are considered, and ways of proper purification are mentioned. Conclusion: It is recommended to introduce spinach into the diet of healthy people in order to increase the functional reserves of a person during periods of hypovitaminosis, overwork, intense physical exertion, and also to compensate for the adverse effects of external factors. Spinach extracts containing phytoecdysteroids (20-hydroxyecdysone) and polyphenols (flavonoids) can be used as a prophylactic to overcome the negative effects of stress, accelerate recovery after strong physical and mental stress, particularly for people with extreme occupations, athletes, and those who are engaged in hard physical labor.