A review on phytochemical and pharmacological potential of genus Chelidonium

Many herbal remedies have so far been employed for the treatment of various ailments since the beginning of human civilization. Chelidonium is the smallest genus of family Papaveraceae, occurring in Europe and Asia. This review is intended to integrate traditional ethno-medical knowledge and modern scientific findings about Chelidonium majus in order to promote understanding of its therapeutic actions as well as its toxic potential. Through this review, the authors hope to attract the attention of natural product researchers throughout the world to focus on the unexplored potential of Chelidonium genus. An exhaustive literature survey revealed that alkaloids, flavonoids and phenolic acids constitute major classes of phytoconstituents of the genus. A few species of this genus have medicinal value, among these, C. majus Linn. (Papaveraceae) has been traditionally used in the treatment of skin diseases such as eczema, ringworm, oral infection, pains and nervous disorders. C. majus has also been included in homeopathic formulations which are in clinical use. Ukrain, a thiophosphate derivative of alkaloids from C. majus, exerts cytotoxic and cytostatic effects on tumor cells, simultaneously acting as an immune response modifier. C. majus seems to hold great potential for in-depth investigation for various biological activities, especially on central nervous system. Copyright 2013, Phcog.Net, Published by Reed Elsevier India Pvt. Ltd. All rights reserved.