The genus Seseli L.: A comprehensive review on traditional uses, phytochemistry, and pharmacological properties

Abstract

Introduction: The present article is the first comprehensive review of Seseli L. species. Seseli is one of the largest genera of the Apiaceae, and some species have been used in traditional medicine and foods besides their medicinal importance. This review aims to provide a comprehensive and critical appraisal of the past and present medicinal uses of Seseli species with their relevant bioactivity. This review also brings a new perspective in all aspects and emphasizes the importance of these species. Methodology: Mainly electronic databases were used as the primary sources for screening related articles and applying related search terms. Results: To date, the Seseli species have no or little attention and few phytochemical and pharmacological studies. Previous phytochemical investigations have confirmed that some species have mainly essential oils and coumarins. This review has also been established by reporting on the pharmacological activities of Seseli species. The genus Seseli has been reported as a good source of coumarins (especially anomalin, and osthol), which may be considered a chemotaxonomic marker. Conclusion: The literature available to date on the genus Seseli partially confirms the basis for some of the traditional uses of this genus and its remarkable pharmacological effects. The Seseli species has proven to be a good source of coumarins, especially pyranocoumarins, like anomalin. However, the uses of Seseli species to treat various diseases need different pharmacological studies before applying or starting clinical trials.