Baccharis (compositae): A review update

Abstract

The Baccharis genus is an important source of natural medicinal products. The information collected here is an attempt to cover the most recent developments in the ethnopharmacology, pharmacology and phytochemistry of this genus. This review describes its traditional and folkloric uses, phyto-constituents and pharmacological and toxicological reports of the prominent species of the genus Baccharis. Flavonoids and other phenolic compounds, diterpenoids and volatile constituents have been reported as the major phyto-constituents of the Baccharis species. Pharmacological studies are mainly based on the anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial and antifungal properties. The potential for development of leads from Baccharis genus continues to grow. The information summarized here is intended to serve as a reference tool to practitioners in the fields of ethnopharmacology and chemistry of natural products. © ARKAT.