Phytochemical and Pharmacological Review of Allium Species from Georgia

Abstract

This research aims to provide a comprehensive phytochemical and pharmacological review of Allium species growing in Georgia. Utilizing scientific sources and articles detailing these plants' phytochemical constituents and pharmacological activities. The study identifies 36 Allium species in Georgia, including five endemics to the country and 2 to the Caucasus region. Numerous biologically active compounds have been isolated from these species, such as over 20 saponins, 11 types of sapogenins, flavonoids, and sulfur compounds. Extensive research highlights pharmacological activities, including cytotoxic, antioxidant, antimicrobial, hepatoprotective, and fibrinolytic effects. Notably, cytotoxic studies on Allium species show significant activity against several cancer cell lines. Antioxidant assays highlight the potential of Allium extracts in scavenging free radicals and reducing oxidative stress. Despite these findings, 22 of the 36 Allium species in Georgia still need to be studied, with unknown chemical structures and biological activities of their compounds. This review underscores the need for further detailed and extensive studies to enhance understanding of these lesser-known species' pharmacological potential and chemical composition