Significance of bioactive compounds, therapeutic and agronomic potential of non-commercial parts of the Coffea tree

Abstract

Coffee is one of the most popular and demanded drinks throughout the world; its consumption goes from the ceremonial to the casual, therefore, the plantations destined for its production are valuable. Besides, the coffee tree is perennial, which guarantees leaves supply throughout the year. Additionally to flowers, coffee leaves have been little studied and commercialized, although they represent an important source of phytochemicals. In flowers, different volatile compounds have been detected; while in leaves, bioactive compounds such as chlorogenic acid and mangiferin have been reported as major phenolics. Both compounds are recognized with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-obesity and anti-carcinogenic effects. These phytochemicals are produced by the plant as a defense mechanism against biotic or abiotic stresses such as pathogens or adverse weather conditions. This review describes the non-conventional applications that aerial parts of the coffee tree could have as therapeutic or agronomic agents, in addition to the uses that have traditionally been linked to the Coffea plant.