Caffeoylquinic acids (CQAs), a group of polyphenolic compounds found in various plants (notably in coffee, artichoke, and some traditional herbal medicines), have been investigated for their potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Several preclinical studies, primarily in animal models of colitis (such as dextran sulfate sodium-induced colitis in mice), have demonstrated that CQAs—particularly chlorogenic acid (the most abundant CQA)—can reduce inflammation, oxidative stress, and tissue damage in the colon. These effects are thought to be mediated through modulation of inflammatory cytokines (such as TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6), inhibition of NF-κB signaling, and improvement of the intestinal barrier function.

Despite these promising findings in animal models, there is a lack of robust clinical evidence in humans. Most published work consists of in vitro and in vivo animal studies, with very limited or no direct clinical trials assessing efficacy in human patients with colitis (including both ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease). As a result, while the scientific rationale is supported by preclinical data, there is insufficient evidence to recommend CQAs as a treatment or adjunct for colitis in humans at this time. The evidence rating reflects the promising but preliminary nature of the research.