"Exploring the Phytochemistry and Pharmacological Effects of Cynoglossum: A Comprehensive Review"

Abstract

Cynoglossum belongs to the family Boraginaceae having around 75 species that are located in warm and temperate regions of Africa, Asia and Europe. It contains four pyrrolizidine alkaloids which are used traditionally as medicines by tribals for the treatment of wounds, burns, cuts chest pain, skin diseases, etc. It is a perennial or biennial herb with similar morphology externally. They produce pyrroles (powerful alkylating agents) when they are metabolized and these pyrroles further react with DNA and proteins causing cellular dysfunction, abnormal mitosis and necrosis of tissue. Few plants belonging to this genus have antioxidant, anti-tuberculosis, diuretic, analgesic, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, antitumor, antifertility and hepatoprotective property.