Planta Med 2013; 79(07): 580-590
DOI: 10.1055/s-0032-1328463

Women's Health

Mini Reviews
Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York

Phytoestrogenic Potential of Cyclopia Extracts and Polyphenols

Ann Louw¹, Elizabeth Joubert^{2, 3}, Koch Visser¹

• ¹Departments of Biochemistry, University of Stellenbosch, Stellenbosch, Matieland, South Africa
• ²Departments of Food Science, University of Stellenbosch, Stellenbosch, Matieland, South Africa
• ³Post-Harvest and Wine Technology, ARC (Agricultural Research Council of South Africa) Infruitec-Nietvoorbij, Stellenbosch, South Africa

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Abstract

Cyclopia Vent. species, commonly known as honeybush, are endemic to Southern Africa. The plant is traditionally used as an herbal tea but several health benefits have recently been recorded. This minireview presents an overview of polyphenols found in Cyclopia and focusses on the phytoestrogenic potential of selected polyphenols and of extracts prepared from the plant.

Key words

Fabaceae - Cyclopia - phytoestrogen - ER binding - ERE promoter reporter assay - E-screen - uterotrophic assay