Phytopharmacological importance of Pelargonium species

Abstract

World population relies on plant-based traditional system of medicine for their primary health care. With the emerging worldwide interest in adopting and studying traditional systems, it is essential to explore the potential of plant based health care systems. A number of herbs belonging to the genus Pelargonium graveolens are noted for their medicinal benefits in traditional system of medicine. A lot of medicinally important attributes have been assigned to the plants of Pelargonium species. They are rich source ofmonoterpenes, sesquiterpenes, coumarins, tannins, phenolic acids, cinnamic acids, flavones, flavonoids and flavonols derivatives. Pelargonium-derived essential oil is used in perfumery, cosmetics, soaps, creams, aromatherapy products exhibit good antioxidant activity and has potential immune modulating effects no natural killer cells. It further relieves congestion especially for the breast tissue, improves circulation and excellent for stimulating and cleansing the lymphatic system, promotes healthy immune system, helpful for detoxification, overcoming addiction, phlebitis, hemorrhoids, fluid retention and indigestion. The important plants of this species which have been so far explored mainly include P. graveolens, P. sidoides, P. reniforme and P. radula etc. The present review aims at exploring the current scientific findings on the various species of Pelargonium.   Key words: Pelargonium, phytochemistry, pharmacology, traditional system of medicine.