Persicaria species native to the North African region: A comprehensive review of its botany, ethnomedicinal uses, phytochemistry and biological activities

Abstract

The genus Persicaria (Polygonaceae) comprises about 150 species found in temperate regions. and subtropical region of Africa, India, and South America This review aims to provide an overview of the current status of Persicaria species native to the North African region in terms of their ethnobotanical uses, phytochemistry, and biological activity alongside the main botanical characteristics. This review includes comprehensive information that identified seven species from the genus Persicaria traditionally used to treat several ailments, namely P. amphibia, P. decipiens, P. hydropiper, P. lapathifolia, P. maculosa, P. lanigera, and P. senegalensis. A considerable number of secondary metabolites, such as phenolic glycosides and derivatives, flavonoids (aglycone and glycosides), terpenoids, and numerous fatty acids have been identified in this genus, which are responsible for their diverse pharmacological activities. Their extracts and pure compounds have been reported for their astringent, antipyretic, styptic, laxative, antibacterial, diuretic, and tonic properties. The information gathered in this review might be of help for future studies in terms of the current knowledge on the link between the phytochemical components and medicinal uses of Persicaria species native to North Africa. This could facilitate more discoveries on its potential particularly in the pharmacological characteristics and consequently be developed into modern medicines.