Climate Resilient Agricultural Practices to Optimize the Therapeutic and Nutritional Potential of Microgreens for Sustainable Development of Urban Society
摘要
Microgreens are young seedlings of edible plants that have gained recognition due to their heightened nutrient content and bioactive compounds. Medicinal microgreens are rich in secondary metabolites such as flavonoids, alkaloids, phenolic compounds, and terpenoids, which contribute to their therapeutic properties. The chapter examines the cultivation methods, nutritional composition, and medicinal potential of medicinal microgreens. Optimal growing conditions, including soil and hydroponic and aeroponic systems, along with harvesting techniques are explored. In light of climate change, the chapter touches upon microgreen cultivation as part of climate-resilient agriculture. Despite several advantages, several challenges to microgreen cultivation remain, including sensitivity to environmental factors and the need for standardization of cultivation protocols. The chapter also discusses the therapeutic potential of medicinal microgreens, namely, as pharmaceuticals, in immune support, anti-aging and skin health, digestive health, and cognitive function. While their benefits are promising, further research is warranted to increase bioactive compounds and validate health claims through clinical trials. As consumer interest in health-promoting foods grows, medicinal plant microgreens offer a plant-based approach to nutrition and natural medicine. This chapter therefore provides a review of their potential, highlighting current research gaps and future directions for their broader application in health and wellness.