Abstract
Buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum Moench) is a pseudocereal with a high
content of amino acids, such as lysine; its lack of gluten makes it an attractive product
with high nutritional potential that could be included in the human diet. It contains
several compounds such as phenolics, carotenoids, organic acids, vitamin E and Bcomplex vitamins, and macro and microelements. Its high protein quality and peptide
content are relevant in F. esculentum. Additionally, biologically active peptides (BAPs)
have been associated with the prevention of some chronic and neurodegenerative
diseases. Consequently, the agro-industrial, cosmetic, food and pharmaceutical sectors
have shown a strong interest in this pseudocereal due to its wide range of compounds.
This chapter is a compilation of scientific contributions related to buckwheat
properties, including generalities, nutritional value, bioactive compounds, BAPs, and
finally, perspectives and conclusions.