Phytochemistry, Medicinal Properties, Bioactive Compounds, and Therapeutic Potential of the Genus <i>Eremophila</i> (Scrophulariaceae)

The genus <i>Eremophila</i> (family Scrophulariaceae) consists of approximately 200 species that are widely distributed in the semi-arid and arid regions of Australia. Multiple <i>Eremophila</i> spp. are used as traditional medicines by the First Australians in the areas in w...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Ian Edwin Cock, Linn Baghtchedjian, Marie-Elisabeth Cordon, Eléonore Dumont
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: MDPI AG 2022-11-01
Series:Molecules
Subjects:
Online Access:https://www.mdpi.com/1420-3049/27/22/7734
Description
Summary:The genus <i>Eremophila</i> (family Scrophulariaceae) consists of approximately 200 species that are widely distributed in the semi-arid and arid regions of Australia. Multiple <i>Eremophila</i> spp. are used as traditional medicines by the First Australians in the areas in which they grow. They are used for their antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, antioxidant, anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, and cardiac properties. Many species of this genus are beneficial against several diseases and ailments. The antibacterial properties of the genus have been relatively well studied, with several important compounds identified and their mechanisms studied. In particular, <i>Eremophila</i> spp. are rich in terpenoids, and the antimicrobial bioactivities of many of these compounds have already been confirmed. The therapeutic properties of <i>Eremophila</i> spp. preparations and purified compounds have received substantially less attention, and much study is required to validate the traditional uses and to highlight species that warrant further investigation as drug leads. The aim of this study is to review and summarise the research into the medicinal properties, therapeutic mechanisms, and phytochemistry of <i>Eremophila</i> spp., with the aim of focussing future studies into the therapeutic potential of this important genus.
ISSN:1420-3049