What are glycosides?

Glycosides are a group of organic compounds made up of a sugar (glycoside) linked to various aglycones, or non-sugar parts of the molecule. It is the variety of aglycones that makes glycosides have a broad spectrum of biological properties. They can exist in various forms, such as saponins, flavonoids or anthocyanins, and each of these forms has its own unique properties.

Division of glycosides

Glycosides can be divided into several basic groups depending on the type of aglycone:

• Flavonoids - Glycosides derived from flavones, which act as antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties.
• Saponins - have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects and can support the immune system.
• Anthocyanins - Glycosides with antioxidant properties that give plants their red, blue or purple color.
• Cardenolides and bufadienolides - act on the heart and are used to treat cardiac diseases.

Health properties of glycosides

Glycosides play a key role in human health, and their biological properties make them valued ingredients in dietary supplements and medicinal products. These compounds can act as antioxidants, support the immune system, and support cardiovascular function.

Effects of glycosides on the cardiovascular system

Some glycosides, especially cardenolides, are known for their effects on the cardiovascular system. Their action is to regulate the heart rhythm and improve the function of the heart muscle. This is why glycosides such as digoxin are used to treat heart disease, especially heart failure and arrhythmias.

Glycosides vs. anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties

Flavonoid glycosides, such as rutin, quercetin and hesperidin, are known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. They work by neutralizing free radicals, which are responsible for oxidative stress and cellular aging. As a result, they can support skin health, promote cell regeneration and protect against chronic diseases such as atherosclerosis.

The use of glycosides in natural medicine

Glycosides have been used in natural medicine for hundreds of years. Many medicinal plants contain these compounds, and their health properties are appreciated in various cultures. For example, licorice root, rich in glycoside saponins, is used as an anti-inflammatory agent, as well as in the treatment of respiratory diseases.

Glycosides in herbal medicine

In herbal medicine, glycosides play a special role. They are found in many popular plants, such as:

• Ginkgo biloba - contains flavonoid glycosides that improve circulation and support brain function.
• Chestnut tree (Aesculus hippocastanum) - Rich in saponin glycosides, which strengthen blood vessels.
• White willow (Salix alba) - Its bark contains salicylic glycosides, which have analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects similar to aspirin.

Glycosides in ENCANN brand products

The ENCANN brand offers products based on natural ingredients, including plant extracts rich in glycosides. At encann.co.uk, you can find products to support health and well-being that are based on natural plant-based ingredients. ENCANN is committed to quality and safety, which is why their products are a popular choice for those looking for natural solutions.

Examples of ENCANN products containing glycosides:

• ENCANN hemp oils - Hemp contains many phytonutrients, including flavonoid glycosides, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
• ENCANN hemp creams - Hemp oil-based creams promote skin regeneration, and the flavonoids they contain protect against oxidative stress.
• ENCANN Dietary Supplements - These products, based on plant extracts, support heart health, the immune system and circulation, thanks to the presence of glycosides.

What plants contain glycosides?

Many plants are rich in glycosides, making them extremely valuable in medicine and herbal medicine. Here are some examples of plants containing glycosides:

• Aloe vera - contains anthraquin glycosides, which promote digestion and have a laxative effect.
• St. John's Wort - Rich in flavonoid glycosides, which have a calming and antidepressant effect.
• Marigold - contains triterpene glycosides with anti-inflammatory and healing effects.

Glycoside products on the market

Many products containing glycosides are available on the health and beauty market. They are used in both dietary supplements and skin care products. Glycosides are appreciated for their natural healing properties, as well as for being safe and well tolerated by the body.

Dietary supplements

Many dietary supplements contain glycosides as an active ingredient. They are used to support the immune system, improve heart function or fight oxidative stress. Examples include:

• Ginkgo biloba-based supplements - Support memory and concentration.
• Chestnut extracts - Strengthen blood vessels and promote heart health.
• Licorice preparations - have a soothing effect on the digestive system and help treat inflammation.

Use of glycosides in cosmetics

Cosmetics containing glycosides are becoming increasingly popular. Their anti-inflammatory, regenerative and antioxidant properties make them ideal ingredients in skin care products. Glycosides help fight free radicals, improve skin condition and promote healing processes.

Skin creams and lotions

In skin cosmetics, glycosides are valued for their ability to soothe irritation, reduce inflammation and accelerate epidermal regeneration. They can be used in products for sensitive skin, atopic skin, as well as for mature skin.

Serums and oils

Serums and oils containing flavonoid glycosides are popular for mature skin care. Thanks to their antioxidant properties, these glycosides help fight aging and improve skin elasticity and tone.

ENCANN cosmetics with glycosides

The ENCANN brand also offers cosmetics containing glycosides that help skin care. These products are based on natural ingredients, such as hemp oil, which is rich in flavonoids and other phytonutrients. ENCANN cosmetics are designed for different skin types, and regular use can improve the condition and appearance of the skin.

Summary

Glycosides are extremely valuable chemical compounds that have a wide range of applications in both medicine and cosmetics. Their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and cardiovascular support properties make them an important ingredient in many health and cosmetic products. ENCANN brand products such as oils, creams and dietary supplements harness the potential of glycosides, offering natural support for skin health and wellness.

It is worth paying attention to plants rich in glycosides and products available on the market to take full advantage of their properties.

Source: PubMed (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/); Google Scholar (https://scholar.google.com/); National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI); ResearchGate (https://www.researchgate.net/)

Statements given refer to research on adaptogens Hericium Erinaceus, Ganoderma Lucidum, Cordyceps Militaris, Ashwagandha and Coriolus Versicolor not over Encann® brand products. These are not claims regarding the medicinal properties of the product offered. In accordance with the wording of EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT REGULATION 1924/2006, verifiable scientific evidence regarding studies on the use of the fungus is presented on this page. Hedgehog soplolly- one of the components of the offered product.