Volume 147, Issue 1, 2 May 2013, Pages 16–41
Review
Hyptis verticillata Jacq: A review of its traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology and toxicology
Abstract
Ethnopharmacological relevance
Hyptis verticillata
Jacq. (Lamiaceae) (John Charles) is an important medicinal plant with a
long history of traditional use, originating in Central America and now
extending from Florida to Colombia and across the Caribbean. Records of
its earliest use date back to the ancient Mayan and Aztec cultures of
Mesoamerica. There is no indication that this plant is being used
outside of the Americas.
Aim of the review
This
review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the traditional use,
phytochemistry, pharmacological activity and toxicology of Hyptis verticillata
and to highlight the opportunities for greater development of the
plant's medicinal properties at a local and international level.
Materials and methods
An
extensive and systematic review of the literature was undertaken and
all relevant abstracts and full-text articles analysed and included in
the review.
Key findings
A wide
range of traditional uses are cited in the literature, from internal
uses for conditions affecting the respiratory system, digestive tract
and gynaecological system to external uses for conditions affecting the
skin and musculoskeletal system. Pharmacological studies to date have
demonstrated significant activity which support the traditional use of
the plant as an antiinflammatory, antimicrobial, antisecretory agent and
hormone modulator. In addition studies have identified anti-cancer,
acaricidal, insecticidal and molluscicidal activity. No clinical trials
had been completed at the time of this review. A number of key
phytochemicals have been isolated, identified and published to date
including: 17 lignans; 4 triterpenes; 11 diterpenes, 3 sesquiterpenes, 3
monoterpenes, 2 flavonoids, 1 polyphenol and 1 alkaloid. Nine of these
phytochemicals are novel to Hyptis verticillata. Plant extracts
and isolated phytochemicals exhibit a broad range of activities that
include: antimitotic; antiproliferative; cytotoxic; antioxidant;
antiinflammatory; antibacterial; antifungal; antiviral; anti-HIV;
antisecretory; hepatoprotective; insecticidal and acaricidal.
Conclusions
Hyptis verticillata
is a medicinal plant with current widespread traditional use in the
Americas that warrants further research, clinical trials and product
development to fully exploit its medicinal value.
Graphical abstract
Keywords
- Cancer;
- Antimicrobial;
- Inflammation;
- Lignans;
- Traditional medicine Meso- and Southern America;
- Ethnopharmacology;
- Lamiaceae;
- John Charles;
- Hyptis verticillata;
- Phytochemistry;
- Antiproliferative
