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Ethnopharmacology and phytochemistry of Fumaria in Iran: A REVIEW

Document Type : Review Articles

Authors

1 Alzahra university

2 Department of Plant sciences, Alzahra University

10.22087/hmj.2025.545670.1004
Abstract
Objectives: To summarize the chemical constituents reported in Fumaria species. To evaluate the pharmacological activities described in traditional and contemporary literature. To discuss implications for pharmaceutical applications and future drug development, with emphasis on safety and standardized guidelines.

Materials and Methods: Literature-based synthesis of phytochemical analyses reporting flavonoids, glycosides, tannins, saponins, steroids, triterpenoids, phenols, alkaloids, and anthraquinones in Fumaria species. Review of traditional medicinal uses and reported pharmacological activities, including hepatoprotective, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and dermatological effects. Focus on geographic distribution of Fumaria (Iran and other regions) and implications for ethnopharmacology.

Results: Fumaria plants contain a diverse array of secondary metabolites across multiple chemical classes. Traditional uses align with several pharmacological activities documented in the literature, notably hepatoprotective, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and dermatological effects. The distribution of Fumaria species is broad, with relevance to Iran’s flora and potential ethnopharmacological applications.

Conclusions: The chemical diversity of Fumaria underpins a range of pharmacological effects, supporting potential pharmaceutical applications and the design of new drugs. There is a need for standardized guidelines on dosage, safety, and therapeutic combinations, particularly for individuals with thyroid disorders or other underlying health conditions. Future research should prioritize standardized phytochemical profiling, rigorous pharmacological testing, and safety studies to establish evidence-based usage.

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