Exploring the Sustainable Exploitation of Bioactive Compounds in Pelargonium sp.: Beyond a Fragrant Plant

Abstract

This review article aims to present an overview regarding the volatile compounds in different scented species of Pelargonium and their biological activities, immunomodulatory activity, cytotoxic activity, high larvicidal activity and ethnopharmacological uses. Although the Pelargonium genus includes many species, we focused only on the scented ones, with the potential to be used in different domains. Pelargonium essential oil showed great properties as antioxidant activity, antibacterial activity (against K. pneumonie, S. aureus or E. coli strains) and antifungal activity (against many fungi including Candida sp.), the responsible compounds for these properties being tannins, flavones, flavonols, flavonoids, phenolic acids and coumarins. Due to the existence of bioactive constituents in the chemical composition of fresh leaves, roots, or flowers of Pelargonium sp. (such as monoterpenoid compounds–citronellol, geraniol, linalool, and flavonoids–myricetin, quercetin and kaempferol), this species is still valuable, the bio-compounds representing the base of innovative substitutes in food processing industry, nutraceuticals, or preventive human or veterinary medicine (substitute of antibiotics). Highlighting the volatile chemical composition and properties of this scented plant aims to rediscover it and to emphasize the vast spectrum of health-promoting constituents for a sustainable approach. Future research directions should point to the application of plant biotechnology with a significant role in conservation strategy and to stimulate commercial interest.

Natural Sources of Therapeutic Agents Used in Skin Conditions

“…Current pharmacological and medical studies have shown that GEO can have broad-spectrum actions in the field of dermatology (Figure 3), with the following pharmacological actions: antiviral, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, oral cavity fresheners, astringent, healing, antifungal, tissue regeneration, pain relievers, antioxidants, and antitumor actions. These actions have a significant impact on the patient's quality of life [73].…”

“…Following the examination by gas chromatography, increased concentrations of citronellol of major importance were found in GEO, and smaller quantities of α-pinene, limonene and β-pinene, and phytoconstituents were also present in FC, with high-level antibacterial and antifungal actions (Figure 4) [5,73]. GEO can be used in dermatology due to its increased potential in cleansing, odorizing, and purifying the skin, with multiple benefits for the treatment of acne and other dermatological conditions of microbial origin.…”

“…Following the examination by gas chromatography, increased concentrations of citronellol of major importance were found in GEO, and smaller quantities of α-pinene, limonene and β-pinene, and phytoconstituents were also present in FC, with high-level antibacterial and antifungal actions (Figure 4) [5,73]. The desire to discover alternative therapeutic agents that can be successfully used in skin conditions without adverse reactions has led to the study of various natural substances, including BV, FC, and GEO.…”

“…Due to the high concentrations of linalool, citronellol, and geraniol present in its composition, GEO contributes to regulating the moisture balance of the skin, improvements in skin blood circulation, and the regeneration of skin cells, which are very important to mitigate the effects of acne [73]. A group of researchers evaluated the sebostatic activity of Juniperus communis fruit oil and Pelargonium graveolens oil compared to niacinamide.…”