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[A phytochemical and pharmacological advance on medicinal plant Litsea cubeba (Lauraceae)].

Authors Zhang, Shui-Ying; Guo, Qiang; Gao, Xiao-Li; Guo, Zhi-Qin; Zhao, Yun-Fang; Chai, Xing-Yun; Tu, Peng-Fei

Journal Zhongguo Zhong yao za zhi = Zhongguo zhongyao zazhi = China journal of Chinese materia medica , 1991-Dec,4:40

PubMed 1797743

Abstract Litsea cubeba is one of aromatic medicinal plant belonging to family Lauraceae. The roots, stems and fruits of L. cubeba have been widely applied as folk medicines in some districts in China for relieving rheumatism and cold, regulating Qi (meridian) to alleviate pain. Previous studies revealed that this species contains major alkaloids, in specific aporphines, and minor flavonoids, lignans as well. Related pharmacological investigations demonstrated its activities and clinical applications on cardiovascular diseases, anti-cancer, against rheumatoid arthritis, relieving asthma and anti-allergic effects, as anti-oxidants, and so on. As an effort for further exploration of this bioactive ingredients and potential drug development, this paper summarizes most phytochemical and pharmacological results. Further, future prospects are also included.

Species covered 山鸡椒 Litsea cubeba