[Research progress of Ypsilandra thibetica, a medicinal plant of Liliaceae].

Abstract

Ypsilandra thibetica belongs to the family Liliaceae. Its whole plant has the medicinal functions of heat-clearing and detoxifying, relieving congestion and other effects, and is used as the folk medicine to cure scrofula, dysuria embolism and other symptoms. Previous chemical studies revealed that its major and active ingredient is steroidal saponin. Up to now, more than fifty steroidal saponins, mainly composed of spirostan and furostanol types, have been described. Pharmacological and clinical studies have demonstrated that Y. thibetica has anti-tumor, uterine contractions, hemostatic and antibacterial activities, in particular for the treatment of a variety of gynecological hemorrhagic diseases. In an effort to provide references for the advanced research and development of this species, this paper summarized the research progress on its pharmacognosy, including botany and authentication, its isolated secondary metabolites, biological activities and pharmacological applications. In addition, some advantages of this species which could be potentially used as a substitute for Paridis Rhizoma, one of ingredients of the well-known drug "Yunnan Baiyao", together with the future prospect are also briefly included.

• Authors: Li Xia, Qiang Guo, Shui-Ying Zhang, Yong-Shu Liang, Wan-Long Yao, Xian-Tao Zhang
• Journal: Zhongguo Zhong yao za zhi = Zhongguo zhongyao zazhi = China journal of Chinese materia medica (Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi) Vol. 38 Issue 20 Pg. 3413-8 (Oct 2013) ISSN: 1001-5302 [Print] China
• PMID: 24490545 (Publication Type: English Abstract, Journal Article, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't, Review)

Chemical References

• Drugs, Chinese Herbal

Topics

• Animals
• Drugs, Chinese Herbal (chemistry, pharmacology)
• Humans
• Liliaceae (chemistry)
• Molecular Structure
• Plants, Medicinal (chemistry)