Bioactive phytochemicals from Ephedra: An updated review

Abstract

Ephedra is a genus of gymnosperms that belongs to the Ephedraceae family and order Gnetales. The majority of Ephedra species grow as shrubs and is found in arid and semiarid climates across the world. Ephedra intermedia, Ephedra gerardiana, Ephedra alata, Ephedra aphylla, Ephedra foliata, Ephedra campylopoda, and others are some of the most common Ephedra species. Ephedra spp. are used for therapeutic purposes in many regions of the globe as a stimulant, diaphoretic, antiasthmatic, respiratory sedative, and also for digestive system problems, fever, flu, cough therapy, and so on. Phenolics, flavonoids, alkaloids, volatile organic compounds, and other phytochemicals have been identified from the different Ephedra species. Ephedra crude extracts and pure molecules have been reported for a variety of bioactivities including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, anticancer, wound healing, diabetic, arthritis, and more. In the current review, we have compiled, discussed, and highlighted the data obtained about numerous bioactivities and phytochemicals of Ephedra species for their significance as therapeutic agents in the drug development sector.