Orchis mascula L., commonly known as Salep, is a perennial plant belonging to the Orchidaceae family. Its tuberous root nodules have long been recognized in traditional medicine for their therapeutic properties. Rich in glucomannan, starch, mucilage, and bioactive compounds, salep exhibits a wide range of health benefits, including gastrointestinal support, immunomodulatory, sedative, and neuroprotective effects. This article provides a review of the medicinal applications of salep based on classical sources and recent findings from scientific databases. The findings confirm its historical and modern relevance in treating various ailments and underline its potential in phytotherapy and functional nutrition.

salep, Orchis mascula, medicinal plant, polysaccharides, glucomannan, traditional medicine

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