Sacha Inchi (plukenetia volubilis linneo): ¿una experiencia ancestral desaprovechada? Evidencias clínicas asociadas a su consumo

Abstract

Sacha Inchi (Plukenetia volubilis L.) is an oleaginous climbing plant thatgrows in countries like Peru, Bolivia and Colombia. It is an excellent source of unsaturated fatty acids, mainly alpha lino-lenic (C18:3) and linoleic (C18:2), which represent approximately 82% of total oil content. Sacha Inchi has been part of the diet of native people of the region since ancient times and is seen as a promising crop today Due to its composition of essential fatty acids and its high content of antioxidants and tocopherols, the re-commendation of its consumption in the diet can be a strategy for the prevention of cardiovascular disease in populations of Latin America, as olive oil consumption known for its cardioprotective properties, is typically low in these populations. The aim of this article is to review the published literature regarding the safety, acceptability and health impact of Sacha Inchi oil.