Genus Barleria L. (Acanthaceae): a review of its taxonomy, cytogenetics, phytochemistry and pharmacological potential

Abstract

Objectives Barleria, a large genus of the Acanthaceae family, comprises more than 300 species with diverse taxonomy, cytogenetics, phytochemistry and pharmacological potential. Therefore, the aim of this review is to critically assess the research on Barleria and provide guidance for future investigations. Methods The data were obtained from different sources, such as books, theses, journals and some of the websites and internet-based searches, published from 1901 to 2020. Data obtained from PubMed, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, online electronic journals, SpringerLink, Wiley, etc. have also been used. Key findings The species of this genus exhibit considerable medicinal properties. Cytogenetical data are scantily available with chromosome counts available for only 24 species. The most common chromosome number is 2n = 2x = 40. So far, 187 compounds are reported from Barleria species. The active principles, their uses, toxicity and pharmacological effects are discussed. Essential oils, flavones, flavonoids, glycosides, terpenes and terpenoids form the major compounds. Summary It is highly recommended that the pharmacological and economic potential of Barleria species should be exploited and more detailed studies and attention be geared towards its utilization and conservation. In addition, to ensure maximum pharmacological benefits and sustainable use, it is necessary to have empirical information explaining its ethnobotanical values as well as commercial potential.

Chloroplast Genome Analysis for Genetic Information and Authentication in Five Barleria Species

“…The analysis of the five Barleria cp genomes compared to B. prionitis was performed and was found to be 152,217 bp in length [ 23 ]. The identification of various Barleria species should be performed in order to use the correct species for the right purpose, corresponding to the bioactive compounds contained and their properties in natural product creation for humans, such as medicine, cosmetics, and nutraceutical supplements [ 1 , 3 , 4 , 5 , 6 , 7 ]. Several species of Barleria are known for their medicinal or ornamental values [ 6 , 43 , 55 ].…”

“…Barleria (Barlerieae) species belong to the Acanthaceae family. They have a large, polymorphic, widespread genus of perennial herbs, shrubs, and rarely climbers, and comprise about 300 species worldwide [ 1 ]. They are distributed in Africa and Asia, with the highest diversity in tropical East Africa and southern Africa.…”

“…The Barleria species are crucial plants in folk traditional medicine and have ornamental potential. Numerous bioactive compounds, such as alkaloids, flavonoids, phenolic compounds, iridoid glycosides, quinones, quercetin, terpenoids, steroids, and tannins [ 1 , 3 ], have been reported from various Barleria species, corresponding with medicinal properties such as anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, analgesic activity, anti-leukemic, anti-tumor, anti-hyperglycemic, anti-virus, and anti-bacterial activity [ 4 , 5 , 6 , 7 ]. The Barleria species can be made into natural products, such as medicines, cosmetics, and nutraceutical supplements.…”

In silico molecular docking and dynamic simulation of antimalarial compounds from Barleria buxifolia root against type III phosphatidylinositol-4-kinase β: Metabolite Profile Analysis Using LC-MS/HRMS

“…A report showed that 70-80% of rural communities rely on medicinal plants for primary treatment and traditional and contemporary medicine, with impoverished individuals in developing nations relying on these plants because of their unique nutritional pro le [12]. Barleria, a genus of over 300 species in the Acanthaceae family, is known for its diverse taxonomy, cytogenetics, phytochemistry, and pharmacological potential [13]. Barleria buxifolia is an attractive shrub with sharp spines and white to pink blooms.…”

Typification of Linnaean Barleria (Acanthaceae) binomials based on Indian material

“…Barleria L. (Acanthaceae: Acanthoideae: Barlerieae) is mainly a Paleotropical genus of shrubs and subshrubs comprising about 300 species (Darbyshire & al., 2019; Comito & al., 2022). Many of the species have attractive flowers (Lekhak & al., 2022). Species of the genus are characterised by a four‐lobed calyx (two outer segments large and two inner ones smaller), 2 or 4 stamens with globose, honey‐comb pollen, and epidermal cells with double cystoliths (Balkwill & Balkwill, 1998).…”