Cistus albidus L.-Review of a Traditional Mediterranean Medicinal Plant with Pharmacological Potential

Cistus albidus L. (Cistaceae) is a medicinal plant that has been used therapeutically since ancient times in the Mediterranean basin for its important pharmacological properties. The ability of C. albidus to produce large quantities of a wide range of natural metabolites makes it an attractive source of raw material. The main constituents with bioactive functions that exert pharmacological effects are terpenes and polyphenols, with more than 200 identified compounds. The purpose of this review is to offer a detailed account of the botanical, ethnological, phytochemical, and pharmacological characteristics of C. albidus with the aim of encouraging additional pharmaceutical investigations into the potential therapeutic benefits of this medicinal plant. This review was carried out using organized searches of the available literature up to July 2023. A detailed analysis of C. albidus confirms its traditional use as a medicinal plant. The outcome of several studies suggests a deeper involvement of certain polyphenols and terpenes in multiple mechanisms such as inflammation and pain, with a potential application focus on neurodegenerative diseases and disorders. Other diseases such as prostate cancer and leukemia have already been researched with promising results for this plant, for which no intoxication has been reported in humans.

Automated summary

Cistus albidus L. is a medicinal plant with important pharmacological properties, traditionally used in the Mediterranean basin. It produces a wide range of bioactive compounds, mainly terpenes and polyphenols, which have shown potential therapeutic benefits in various diseases. This review provides a detailed account of the botanical, ethnological, phytochemical, and pharmacological characteristics of C. albidus, aiming to encourage further pharmaceutical investigations into its therapeutic potential. Several studies have already shown promising results, particularly in neurodegenerative diseases and disorders, without reported intoxication in humans.