Phytochemistry and Pharmacology of Genus Zephyranthes

Abstract

The genus Zephyranthes belongs to family Amaryllidaceae, well known for its ornamental and medicinal values. The species of this genus are bulbous perennials having attractive flowers that generally bloom after heavy rains. The genus had been used traditionally by inhabitants of different countries like India, Peru, China and Africa for various therapeutic purposes like ear and chest ailments, viral infections, tumors, breast cancer, diabetes mellitus. Phytochemically this genus is reported to contain alkaloids, ceramides, phospholipids, sterols, fatty acids, flavonoids and their glycosides. The alkaloids of this genus are broadly classified as Amaryllidaceae alkaloids having different skeleton types. Pharmacological studies have revealed its potential for different activities like anticancer, antifungal, acetylcholinesterase inhibition, antiviral and antibacterial. In the present review the available information on phytochemical and pharmacological studies of Zephyranthes genus has been compiled.