Oxalis latifolia as a potential modulator of exercise-induced oxidative stress
Abstract
Oxidative stress results from an imbalance between reactive oxygen species (ROS) and endogenous antioxidant mechanisms, being intensified during high-intensity physical exercise. This process compromises cellular integrity, triggers inflammation, and reduces physical performance. In this context, there is growing interest in bioactive compounds, especially polyphenols, due to their ability to modulate antioxidant and inflammatory pathways. This study aimed to investigate the effects of polyphenols on oxidative stress induced by intense physical exercise, with an emphasis on the therapeutic potential of Oxalis latifolia. An integrative literature review was conducted, including articles published between 2019 and 2025 in the PubMed and Scopus databases, complemented by a manual search of reference lists. A total of 26 studies were selected, which demonstrated the protective effects of polyphenols, mainly through the activation of the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), responsible for the expression of endogenous antioxidant enzymes. Additionally, inhibition of the inflammatory pathway mediated by nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) was observed, resulting in the attenuation of the inflammatory response. These mechanisms culminate in the reduction of ROS, tissue preservation, and improvement of physical performance. It is concluded that, although specific experimental evidence on O. latifolia is still lacking, its phytochemical composition supports its therapeutic potential in mitigating exercise-induced oxidative stress.
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