Ethnobotanical Features of Teucrium Species

Abstract

Species of the Teucrium genus have been used in ethnopharmacology for centuries, helping to treat many pathophysiological conditions, such as diabetes, gastrointestinal disorders, rheumatism, inflammations, and tuberculosis. They can also be used as a diuretic, antipyretic, tonic, diaphoretic, analgesic and antihyperlipidemic. This study provides a comprehensive analysis of the traditional use of Teucrium species based on research conducted up to now in different parts of the world. With this aim, 72 ethnobotanical studies were analyzed and a total of 20 Teucrium species were identified for this analysis. Nineteen of these species are used in human ethnomedicine, 3 in veterinary ethnomedicine and 4 for other purposes. Teucrium chamaedrys, T. polium and T. montanum are mentioned in the largest number of studies and have the widest range of uses. The aerial parts of the plant are those that are most frequently used, with infusions (77.8%) and decoctions (48.6%) the most common methods of preparation. The use of Teucrium species for treating abdominal problems is mentioned in 56 of the studies and in 21 studies for treating disorders heart and blood vessels. Treating respiratory problems is referenced in 17 studies and problems in the functioning of the endocrine glands in 16 studies. The medicinal properties of Teucrium species can be ascribed to their chemical composition, specifically essential oils, phenolic acids, flavonoids, and other secondary metabolites. However, the long-term use of some of the preparations can have negative side effects, such as hepatotoxicity or gradual deterioration in neuromuscular coordination.