Traditional use, biological activity potential and toxicity of Pimpinella species

Pimpinella species have long been used traditionally in the treatment of various ailments by the people mainly living in Turkey, China, Korea, Iran, Egypt, Palestine, Lebanon, and European countries (United Kingdom and Italy). Plants belonging to this family have economic importance and they have long been used as condiments or vegetables in addition to their traditional therapeutic values. Members of Pimpinella, particularly Pimpinellaanisum, together with other Apiaceae species, have also been used in several industrial areas along the Mediterranean countries, particularly in beverage industry, to produce spirit drinks due to their characteristic flavors. This review is prepared to provide an overview to the knowledge of last 14 years (since 2000) and to make suggestions for filling the gaps available in the literature for this genus. Pimpinella species were found among the major sources of natural compounds having a broad spectrum of biological activities such as antimicrobial, antioxidant, enzyme inhibitory and/or stimulant, anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, anti-convulsing etc. In this review, toxic potential of Pimpinella species were also discussed. Although the majority of compounds tested were found as safe on various cell lines, some compounds that are highly toxic were particularly underlined here. Although the majority of compounds tested were found as not toxic on various cell lines, 4-methoxy-2-(1-propenyl)-phenyl angelate, (+)-4-methoxy-2-(3-methyloxiranyl)-phenyl tiglate, and estragole were described as a potent carcinogens. Plant based products containing estragole were discussed and some suggestion were presented for the producers. Additionally, since there are enormous amount of traditional experiences on the expectorant effects of Pimpinella species, it is suggested to evaluate the bronchodilator effect of these species scientifically together with the identification of active phytochemicals, as well as their possible side effects on pregnant women. (C) 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.