Eryngium creticum – ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry and pharmacological activity. A review

Abstract

Eryngium creticum Lam. (E. cyaneum Sibth. & Sm., E. syriacum Lam.), Saniculoideae, Apiaceae is of great importance in the traditional Greco – Arab medicine. This study was carried out in order to contribute to the ethnopharmacological knowledge of this medicinal species. This review describes the botanical characterization and distribution, as well as critically assesses the phytochemical properties and biological activities of E. creticum, a species that has been used in traditional medicine for many decades. Possible trends and perspectives for future research of this plant are discussed, as well. E. creticum has been found to contain several chemical constituents, mostly sesquiterpenes, monoterpenes, aldehydes, coumarins, sitosterols and sugars. Eryngo with its bioactive compounds possesses a wild range of biological activities. It was reported that in traditional medicine E. creticum was applied mainly as the remedy for snake and scorpion bites. Some published studies have shown a broad spectrum of biological and pharmacological activities, including anti-snake and anti-scorpion venom, as well as antibacterial, antifungal and antileishmanial effects. Other have indicated antihyperglycemic, hypoglycemic and antioxidant activities of this species. The in vitro studies and in vivo models have provided a simple bioscientific explanation for its various ethnopharmacological uses.