Phytoecdysteroids: Chemical Structure And Biological Activity

Abstract

Owing to the need to develop new medicines and biologically active food additives with adaptogenic effects, phytoecdysteroids – polyhydroxylated sterols-are of great interest. Different types of drugs, extracts and individual compounds, have a wide range of pharmacological effects on several organs, such as the brain, blood, cardiovascular and nervous systems, as well as on various biochemical processes and physiological functions. Extracts and preparations from plants are safe and exhibit additional biological effects (antioxidant, immunomodulatory, anti-cancer, antimicrobial, antiparasitic and antifidant). Data on the chemical, pharmacological, and toxicological characteristics of R. carthamoides demonstrate that this species has beneficial therapeutic properties, and indicate its potential as an effective adaptogenic herbal remedy.