Arctium Species Secondary Metabolites Chemodiversity and Bioactivities

Arctiumspecies are known for a variety of pharmacological effects due to their diverse volatile and non-volatile secondary metabolites. Representatives of Arctiumspecies contain non-volatile compounds including lignans, fatty acids, acetylenic compounds, phytosterols, polysaccharides, caffeoylquinic acidderivatives, flavonoids, terpenes/ terpenoidsand volatile compounds such as hydrocarbons, aldehydes, methoxypyrazines, carboxylic and fatty acids, monoterpenesand sesquiterpenes. Arctiumspecies also possess bioactive properties such as anti-cancer, anti-diabetic, anti-oxidant, hepatoprotective, gastroprotective, antibacterial, antiviral, antimicrobial, anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory effects. This review aims to provide a complete overview of the chemistry and biological activities of the secondary metabolitesfound in therapeutically used Arctiumspecies. Summary of pharmacopoeiasand monographs contents indicating the relevant phytochemicals and therapeutic effects are also discussed, along with possible safety considerations.