south african helichrysum species: a review of the traditional uses, biological activity and...

Journal of Ethnopharmacology 119 (2008) 630652

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South A f thactivity

A.C.U. Loa School of Che , Southb Department o ia 000

a r t i c l

Article history:Received 13 MReceived in reAccepted 10 JuAvailable onlin

Keywords:AsteraceaeBiological actiHelichrysumPhytochemistryTraditional uses

enusng ofcicvervieprevnder,rysumry anrity a

literature.Conclusions:Althougha largenumberof ethnopharmacologicaluseshavebeendocumentedand thechem-

1. Introdu

The genwords helisidering th(Pooley, 20Inuleae andconsists ofsum speciesouthern Ispecies ocSouth Afriwidely disdisplayedbphologicalas differenare either sThe aerialherbs or shing. They a2000).

CorrespoE-mail ad

0378-8741/$doi:10.1016/j.istry of the genus has been studied extensively, only a few South African species have been investigatedfor their biological activity.

2008 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

ction

us Helichrysum Mill. derives its name from the Greekos (sun) and chrysos (gold) which is appropriate con-e attractive yellow owers displayed by several species03). The genus belongs to the Asteraceae family, tribesubtribe Gnaphaliinae (Hilliard, 1983). This large genus

approximately 500600 species and although Helichry-s are also found in southern Europe, south-west Asia,ndia, Sri Lanka (previously Ceylon) and Australia, mostcur in Africa, including Madagascar (Hilliard, 1983). Inca (including Namibia), the ca. 244250 species aretributed and the tremendous morphological diversityy these species resulted in their subdivision into30mor-groups, using the shape and size of the ower headstiating characteristics (Hilliard, 1983). The ower headsolitary or occur in compact or spreading inorescences.parts are usually hairy or woolly and plants occur asrublets that are sometimes dwarfed and cushion form-re often aromatic (Pooley, 1998, 2003; Van Wyk et al.,

nding author. Tel.: +27 33 2605886; fax: +27 33 2605009.dress: [email protected] (F.R. van Heerden).

2. Traditional uses

Several Helichrysums are widely used in Southern African tradi-tional medicine as summarised in Table 1. The rst written recordof the medicinal use of Helichrysum dates back to 1727 whenBoerhaave noted that a Helichrysum species was used to treat ner-vousness and hysteria. The report of a Helichrysum species in theearly literature could have been based on knowledge acquired fromthe local Khoi and San people, but is most probably due to thefact that European botanists used their knowledge of medicinalproperties of European genera (Scott and Hewett, 2008).

2.1. Ambiguities in nomenclature

As is the case for all ethnobotanical data, the fact that plantnames are changed (Germishuizen and Meyer, 2003) and fre-quently incorrectly cited (Arnold et al., 2002) is quite problematic.To complicate matters further, variation in spelling of names alsooccurs. Special care needs to be taken when consulting the originaltexts to unambiguously conrm that a plant selected for a partic-ular study is in fact the same species cited by, for example, Wattand Breyer-Brandwijk (1962). In Table 1, current names are givenand previously accepted names are shown in parenthesis. For thesake of clarity, the name as it appears in the reference is sometimesindicated in brackets after the reference.

see front matter 2008 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.jep.2008.06.011frican Helichrysum species: A review oand phytochemistry

urensa, A.M. Viljoenb, F.R. van Heerdena,

mistry, University of KwaZulu-Natal Pietermaritzburg, Private Bag X01, Scottsville 3209f Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tshwane University of Technology, Private Bag X680, Pretor

e i n f o

ay 2008vised form 3 June 2008ne 2008e 19 June 2008

vity

a b s t r a c t

Aims of the study: In South Africa, the gare well documented although renamimay cause uncertainty as to which speis to present a collated and coherent oand to update the botanical identity ofMaterials andmethods:Databases (Sciin information on South African HelichResults: The traditional uses, chemistmarized. It was attempted to give clalocate / je thpharm

e traditional uses, biological

Africa1, South Africa

Helichrysum is widely used in traditional medicine. The usesspecies and the resulting confusing taxonomic nomenclaturespecies was referred to in some reports. The aim of this paperw of the documented traditional uses of Helichrysum speciesiously studied species.ISIWeb of Knowledge) and several bookswere used to collectspecies.

d biological activity of Helichrysum species have been sum-s to exactly which species is refer to in the ethnobotanical

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Table 1Traditional uses and biological activities reported for Helichrysum species

Speciesa Plant part used Dosage form Traditional use Classication ofuseb

Biologicalactivityb

References

Helichrysum acutatum DC. 21c Widely used as traditional medicine, soldcommercially in large quantities

NS Arnold et al. (2002), Cunningham (1988),Hutchings et al. (1996)

Helichrysum adenocarpum DC. 28 Root Decoction Used to treat diarrhoea and vomiting inchildren.

GIT Arnold et al. (2002), Jacot Guillarmod (1971),Neuwinger (1996), Phillips (1917), Pooley(2003), Walker (1996), Watt andBreyer-Brandwijk (1962)

Helichrysum appendiculatum (L.f.) Less. 24 Leaf Eaten raw Chest problems or infection of the respiratorytract

Resp, Infec,Anth, W, P

Bd, Fd Arnold et al. (2002), Githens (1949), Mathekga(2001) e, Smith (1895), Smith (1966),Swanepoel (1997), Walker (1996), Watt andBreyer-Brandwijk (1962)Plant Smallpox

Plant AnthelminticRoot Coughs and colds and applied externally on

woundsLeaf Wound dressing Applied externally to wounds. Ground leaves

are rubbed into areas which cramps or onwounds

Roots Ground and burnt and smeared on body torelax body and to reduce swelling

Leaf Used medicinally as tea

Helichrysum argyrophyllum DC. 29 Root Infusion Intestinal troubles GIT Arnold et al. (2002), Batten and Bokelmann(1966), Smith (1966), Walker (1996), Watt andBreyer-Brandwijk (1962)

Not grazed by stock, preventing soil erosion inovergrazed areas

Helichrysum argyrosphaerum DC. 15 Browsed by animals but poisonous if largequantities is ingested

Poi Bd, Fd Hutchings et al. (1996), Mathekga (2001) e,Pooley (1998), Van Wyk et al. (2002)

Helichrysum asperum (Thunb.) Hilliardand Burtt. (=Helichrysum ericifoliumLess.) (Hilliard, 1983) 12f

The plants are casually browsed by sheep andsaid to be a cause of Geilsiekte

Poi Smith (1966) (Helichrysum ericaefolium DC.)g

Helichrysum athrixiifolium (Kuntze)Moeser 9f

Leaf Smoked Chest complaints. Resp Arnold et al. (2002), Jacot Guillarmod (1971)(Helichrysum athrixifolium O. Hoffm.)g, Phillips(1917) (Helichrysum athrixiifolium O. Hoffm.)g,Watt and Breyer-Brandwijk (1962)(Helichrysum athrixifolium O. Hoffm.)g

Helichrysum aureonitens Sch. Bip. 8 Leaves and stems Burnt as incense Used to invoke the goodwill of the ancestorsand to induce trances

Psy, Psyc,Infect, Insect

Bd, Fd, V Afolayan and Meyer (1997) e, Cunningham(1988), Hutchings et al. (1996), JacotGuillarmod (1971), Mathekga (2001) e, Meyerand Afolayan (1995) e, Meyer et al. (1996) e,Meyer et al. (1997) e, Phillips (1917), Pooley(1998), Pooley (2003), Swanepoel (1997),Walker (1996), Watt and Breyer-Brandwijk(1962)

Leaves and stems Commercially soldDecoction A remedy for inuresis in childrenExtracts Used topically for skin infections especially

against Herpes zoster and infections associatedwith Herpes simplexUsed to keep red mites awayUsed as tinder to start re, used to make hats.

Helichrysum aureum Houtt. Merr. var.aureum/monocephalum (=Helichrysumfulgidum (L.f.) Willd.) 30h

Decoction Used for washing sore eyes Eye Arnold et al. (2002) (Helichrysum fulgidum L.f.)Willd.)g, Batten and Bokelmann (1966)(Helichrysum fulgidum Willd.)g, JacotGuillarmod (1971) (Helichrysum fulgidum (L.)Willd.)g, Phillips (1917) (Helichrysum fulgidumWilld.)g

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Biologicalactivityb

References

Helichrysum bellum Hilliard 28 Bd, Fd Mathekga (2001) e

Helichrysum caespititium (DC.) Harv 12f Plant Crushed and burnt andsmoke inhaled

Used to treat head and chest colds(headaches)

Resp, Infect,GIT, Vi, W

Bd, Fd, I, My Arnold et al. (2002), Dekker et al. (1983) e,Gelfand et al. (1985) (Helichrysum caespitiumSond.)g, Hutchings and Van Staden (1994),Jacot Guillarmod (1971) (Helichrysumcaespitium Sond.)g, Mathekga et al. (2000) e,Mathekga (2001) e, Meyer et al. (2002) e,Neuwinger (1996), Phillips (1917) (Helichrysumcaespitium Sond)g, Pooley (1998), Pooley(2003), Swanepoel (1997) e, Watt andBreyer-Brandwijk (1962)

Plant Decoction Drunk by the Kwena and the Kgatla totreat gonorrhoea

Root Decoction NauseaRoots VirilityPlant Ointment Ointment is applied to the roof of the

mouth for a depressed fontanelleUsed as dressing for open woundsduring circumcision rites

Helichrysum callicomum Harv 2 Protective charm. Mixed with Asterbakerianus (hispidis) and Helichrysumrugulosum

M, GIT Bd, Fd Arnold et al. (2002), Jacot Guillarmod (1971),Mathekga and Meyer (1998) e, Mathekga(2001) e, Phillips (1917), Pooley (2003), Wattand Breyer-Brandwijk (1962)

Used for fuel in winterEnema Used as an ingredient in an enema for

colicHelichrysum calocephalum Klatt 23 Arnold et al. (2002) refers to others using

Helichrysum calocephalum Schltr, which isclassied as Helichrysum ecklonis Sond(Germishuizen and Meyer, 2003)

Helichrysum calophalum Klatt 23 Root Used for hyperfunction of the lowergastro-intestinal tract

GIT Swanepoel (1997), information obtained fromTRAMED database. It is not clear to theseauthors whether this use pertains toHelichrysum calocephalum Klatt or Helichrysumecklonis Sond

Helichrysum candolleanum Buek 15 Bd, Fd Mathekga (2001) e

Helichrysum chionosphaerum DC. 25 Bd, Fd Mathekga (2001) e

Helichrysum cephaloideum DC.(=Helichrysum adscendens Less. var.cephaloideum Moes.) 24

Irritant poisoning in sheepdemonstrated. Known to be poisonousto sheep (symptoms similar to that ofpoisoning caused by Geigera)

Poi Van Wyk et al. (2002), Watt andBreyer-Brandwijk (1962)

Helichrysum cochleariforme DC.(=Helichrysum imbricatum Less.) 15

Tea, infusion Demulcent in coughs and otherpulmonary affections. In the WesternCape area the plant is used to treatwhooping cough, other coughs,bronchial catarrh and bronchitis

Resp Arnold et al. (2002), Neuwinger (1996), Smith(1966), Swanepoel (1997), Watt andBreyer-Brandwijk (1962)

Whole plant Decoction Drunk for infections of the respiratorytract

Helichrysum cooperi Harv. 30 Leaf Ointment, applied afterbathing

Used as love charm. The ointment isapplied after bathing and as a result thedesired lady nds the man irresistible

M, Fum,Snakebite

Arnold et al. (2002), Hutchings et al. (1996),Pooley (1998), Pooley (2003), Walker (1996),Watt and Breyer-Brandwijk (1962)

Leaves Used to make Zulu headdressdistinctive to married womenUsed as a fumigant and as part of atraditional remedy for snakebite.

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Helichrysum crispum (L.) D. Don. 17 Used medicinally as a calming teaCoughs, bronchitis, urinary tractinfections and tuberculosis.

Resp, Renal B Arnold et al. (2002) (with reference to Smith,1966), Kling as quoted by Salie et al., 1996e,Roberts (1990) (Helichrysum crispum)g

These authors are not certain whether Kling isreferring to Helichrysum crispum (L.) D. Don. orHelichrysum crispum Less.

Helichrysum cymosum (L.) D. Don. 8 Used to invoke the goodwill of theancestors and to induce trances

M, Psy, Resp,GIT, P

Bd, Fd, Pl Arnold et al. (2002), Bhat and Jacobs (1995),Kokwaro as quoted by Neuwinger (1996),Neuwinger (1996), Pooley (2003), Van Vuurenet al. (2006) e, Van Wyk et al. (2000)

Leaf Decoction/tea Used to treat colds and coughsRoot Extract Used as emetic and purgativeLeaf Filtrate drunk to treat colds and feverLeaf Boiled, and vapours from

boiling leaves inhaledVapour bath used to treat headaches

Helichrysum dasymallum Hilliard(=Helichrysum lanatum Harv.) 21

Used as medicinal tea. Woolly coatused for tinder boxes

NS Arnold et al. (2002), Lucas and Pike (1971),Smith (1966)

Helichrysum decorum DC. 30 Plant Burned and smokedinhaled

Used to induce trances Psy Bd, Fd Arnold et al. (2002), Hutchings et al. (1996),Mathekga (2001) e, Neuwinger (1996)

Helichrysum dregeanum Sond. and Harv. 9 Leaf Smoked Used to treat head colds Resp, GIT Arnold et al. (2002), Hutchings and Van Staden(1994), Jacot Guillarmod (1971), Neuwinger(1996), Phillips (1917), Smith (1966), Watt andBreyer-Brandwijk (1962)

Infusion Used to treat hiccupsBrowsed by stock

Helichrysum ecklonis Sond (=Helichrysumcalocephalum Schltr.) 28

Used by the Xhosas to ward of evilmagic spells, which follow on seeingiChanti, the water snake

M, GIT Batten and Bokelmann (1966), JacotGuillarmod (1971), Phillips (1917), Pooley(2003), Watt and Breyer-Brandwijk (1962)

Root Decoction Used to treat diarrhoea in children.

Helichrysum epapposum Bolus 3 Leaves and stems Burned as incense Used to invoke the goodwill of theancestors

M Arnold et al. (2002), Cunningham (1988),Hutchings et al. (1996)

Leaves and stems Commercially sold

Helichrysum excisum (Thunb.) Less. 12 Bd, I Lourens et al. (2004) e

Helichrysum felinum Less. 17 Bd, I Lourens et al. (2004) e

Helichrysum anaganii Bolus 13 Leaves Burned Incense M Walker (1996)

Helichrysum foetidum (L.) Moench 30f Plant Extract is drunk/smokeinhaled

Used to induce trances Psy, Infect,Resp, W, Eye, P

B Arnold et al. (2002), Batten and Bokelmann(1966) (Helichrysum foetidum Cass.)g, Gerstner(1938) (Helichrysum foetidum Cass)g, Hulme(1954), Hutchings et al. (1996), Kokwaroquoted by Neuwinger (1996), Neuwinger(1996) Roberts (1990), Rwangabo, quoted byNeuwinger (1996), Steenkamp et al. (2004) e,Swanepoel (1997), Van Wyk and Gericke(2000), Watt and Breyer-Brandwijk (1962)(Helichrysum foetidum Cass.)g

Leaf Extract Used to treat u (inuenza)Leaf Wound dressing Used to treat circumcision and infected

wounds (festering sores)Leaf Preparation Applied to treat HerpesRoot Extract Eye problems, used to bath eyesLeaf Used in making headdress distinctive

of married womenPlant Aromatic and astringent (used to draw

out infection).Used to treat menstrual pain

Helichrysum glomeratum Klatt 6 B, Fd Mathekga and Meyer (1998) e, Mathekga(2001) e

Helichrysum griseum Sond (=Helichrysumagrostophilum Klatt) 23h

Preventative charm against illness.Burnt as fuel in winter

M Arnold et al. (2002), Phillips (1917)

Helichrysum gymnocomum DC. 4 Stems and leaves Burned as incense Used to invoke the goodwill of theancestors

Skin, M, Fum Bd, Fd Cunningham (1988), Drewes and Van Vuuren(2008) e, Hutchings et al. (1996), Phillips (1917)

Ointment Mixed with fat, only the wives of chiefswere previously allowed to use itUsed to fumigate sick roomsCommercially sold

Helichrysum herbaceum (Andrews) Sweet 29 Stems and leaves Burned as incense Used to invoke the goodwill of theancestors

M Bd, Fd Arnold et al. (2002), Cunningham (1988),Hutchings et al. (1996), Mathekga (2001) e,Neuwinger (1996), Pooley (1998), Pooley(2003)

Stems and leaves Commercially sold

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Table 1 (Continued )


Biologicalactivityb

References

Helichrysum hypoleucum Harv 16 Bd, Fd Mathekga and Meyer (1998) e, Mathekga(2001) e

Helichrysum indicum (L.) Grierson(=Helichrysum expansum (Thunb.)Less.) 15

Plant Burned and crushed Mixed with Conyza pinnata. Crushedand burnt to drive sickness from aroom

M Arnold et al. (2002), Jacot Guillarmod (1971)

Helichrysum kraussii Sch. Bip 8 Leaf Decoction Use to wash keloid scars Skin, M, Resp,Infect

Bd, Fd Arnold et al. (2002), Arnold and Gulumian asquoted by Neuwinger (1996), Bremner andMeyer (2000) e, Mathekga (2001) e, Gelfand etal. (1985), Mabogo (1990), Neuwinger (1996),Swanepoel (1997), Walker (1996), Watt andBreyer-Brandwijk (1962)

Root and leaves Infusion Used to drive bad spirits away, used towash body

Dried ower and seed Smoked in a pipe The Karanga smoke this as a remedyfor coughs and pulmonary tuberculosis

Plant Burnt, salt is added to ashand ingested by mouth

Cough

Root Venereal diseaseRoot Mixed with salt and other

ingredientsApplied to childs side with smallamount given orally

Helichrysum lepidissimum S. Moore 19 Powder or ointment Used as a body perfume Skin Dlamini (1981), Watt and Breyer-Brandwijk(1962)

Helichrysum litorale Bolus (=Leontonyxangustifolius DC. =Leontonyx spathulatusLess.) 14

Plant Dried and pounded or mixed with lardor fat, was used for applying to ulcers.

W, Skin Smith (1966), Swanepoel (1997), Watt andBreyer-Brandwijk (1962)

In the Western Cape province anointment for boils, carbuncles andabscesses is made from this plant,Cyanella lutea andtiendaegeneesbossie

Helichrysum longifolium DC. 24 Leaf Used by the Pondos to treatcircumcision wounds. The leaves areheated over very hot ash before beingused as a bandage for the treatment ofwounds after circumcision

W Bd, Fd Dilika et al. (1997) e, Mathekga (2001) e

Helichrysum lucilioides Less. 12 Excellent stock feed Smith (1966)Helichrysum melanacme DC. 8 Used as bedding. Used medicinally as

tea. Used for cough, fever, headache,colds and chest pain

Resp, P Bd, Fd, My,V

Arnold et al. (2002), Lall and Meyer (1999) e,Lall et al. (2006) e, Mathekga (2001) e, Smith(1966)

Helichrysum miconiifolium DC. 23 Tea Used medicinally as tea P, Anthel Bd, Fd Smith (1966) (Helichrysum miconiaefoliumDC.)g, Arnold et al. (2002), Mathekga (2001) e,Swanepoel (1997)

Leaf The Xhosa grind and boil the leavesand use it as a wash for pain aftercircumcision

Root The powdered root is used forintestinal parasites and for ticks onpoultry

Helichrysum montanum DC. 22 B, Fd Mathekga (2001) e

Helichrysum monticola Hilliard 28 B, Fd Mathekga (2001) e

Helichrysum mundtii Harv. 23 Plant Decoction Chest complaints Resp Arnold et al. (2002), Jacot Guillarmod (1971),Pooley (1998), Pooley (2003), Phillips (1917)(Helichrysum mundii, Harv.)g, Watt andBreyer-Brandwijk (1962)

Helichrysum natalitium DC. 3 Leaves and stems Burnt as incense Used to invoke the goodwill of theancestors

M Arnold et al. (2002), Cunningham (1988),Hutchings et al. (1996), Pooley (2003)

Leaves and stems Commercially sold

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Helichrysum nudifolium (L.) Less. var.nudifolium =H coriaceum Harv.f =alsoHelichrysum gerberifolium A. Rich, =alsoHelichrysum leiopodium DC. =alsoHelichrysum nudifolium var.quinquenerve =also Helichrysumnudifolium var. leiopodium) 23

Leaf Burnt as incense To invoke the goodwill of the ancestors M, Resp, W,Infect, P, Skin,GIT

Bd, Fd, I Arnold et al. (2002), Gerstner (1938)(Helichrysum undifolium, also Helichrysumleiopodium DC.)g, Githens (1949) (Helichrysumnudifolium, also Helichrysum leiopodium)g,Glover et al. quoted by Neuwinger (1996),Hulme (1954), Hutchings et al. (1996),Hutchings and Johnson (1986), Hutchings andVan Staden (1994), Jacot Guillarmod (1971)(Helichrysum nudifolium var. leiopodium)g, Jgeret al. (1996) e, Mabogo (1990), Phillips (1917)(Helichrysum leiopodium DC.)g, Rood (1994),Smith (1895) (Helichrysum nudiorum)g, Smith(1966) (Helichrysum coriaceum Sond. andHelichrysum nudifolium var. quinquenerve)g,Swanepoel (1997) e (Helichrysumgerberifolium)g, Van Wyk et al. (2000),Neuwinger (1996) (also Helichrysumgerberifolium Sch. Bip)g, Watt andBreyer-Brandwijk (1962) (Helichrysumgerberaefolium Sch. Bip. Ex A.Rich)g

Infusion Colds (Zulu and Khoiadministrationroute not indicated)

Leaf Eaten raw Used to treat colds by the XhosaPlant Infusion Regarded as demulcent, used to treat

catarrh, phthisis and other pulmonaryaffections

Leaf/plant Respiratory infectionsRoot Coughs and coldsLeaf Wound dressing WoundsRoot/Leaf Applied to sores on the genitalia by the

XhosaPlant/leaf Smoke inhaled HeadacheLeaf Infusion Rectal prolapse

Powder mixed with butterand eaten

Protection of children from illness

Root Decoction Chest problems, used as emetic by theZulu

Leaf Decoction To encourage weaning in babiesLeaf Infusion Diseases in goatsPlant Infusion on hot stones Used as steam bath to treat fever and

nightmaresPlant Poultice Swellings

Decoction Colic in children (administered asenema)Rubbed into scarications over bruises.Used as tea

Root Decoction Internal sores (intestinal ulceration)

Helichrysum nudifolium var. oxyphyllum(=Helichrysum oxyphyllum DC. =alsoHelichrysum undatum Less.) 23

Protective charm against thunder M Arnold et al. (2002), Gertsner (1938),Hutchings et al. (1996)

Helichrysum nudifolium var. pilosellum(=Helichrysum latifolium (Thunb.) Less.=Helichrysum pilosellum (L.f.) Less.) 23

Used for doctoring people who wishsome deed concealed and who areafraid of being found out

M, GIT B, Fd Arnold et al. (2002) (H. pilosellum)g, Hulme(1954) (Helichrysum latifolium)g, Hutchings etal. (1996) (Helichrysum pilosellum (L.f.) Less.)g,Jacot Guillarmod (1971) (Helichrysum latifolium(Thunb.) Less.)g, Mathekga and Meyer (1998) e,Mathekga (2001) e, Neuwinger (1996)(Helichrysum pilosellum (L.f.) Less.)g, Phillips(1917) (Helichrysum latifolium Less.)g, Phillips(1917) (Helichrysum latifolium Less.)g, Pooley(2003) (Helichrysum pilosellum)g, Swanepoel(1997), Walker (1996) (Helichrysum pilosellum(L.f.) Less.)g, Watt and Breyer-Brandwijk (1962)(Helichrysum latifolium Less.)g

Ingredient in colic remedyLeaf Infusion Stomach ache in childrenRoots Ground and burnt Ground and burnt near cattle suffering

from black legHelichrysum nudifolium var. pilosellum(=Helichrysum pilosellum (L.f.) Less.=Helichrysum pedunculare (L.) DC. var.pilosellum) 23h

As an antiseptic and to induce fasthealing: used after circumcision toprevent inammation externally

W, Resp, GIT Arnold et al. (2002), the sources below areindicated in Arnold et al., under Helichrysumpedunculare DC.: Batten and Bokelmann (1966)(isicwe, isiGqutsi)i, Githens (1949) (Helichrysumpedunculare)g, Smith (1895) (isi-Cwe.)i , Smith(1966)

Also externally applied to wounds andused for infections of the respiratorytractAs an antisepticStomach ailments

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Biologicalactivityb

References

Helichrysum odoratissimum (L.) Sweet 4 Leaf/ground plants Used as wounddressing/leaf pulp

Wounds and burns W, Fum, Psy,Psyc, M, Resp,Eye, GIT, P

Bd, Fd, My Adjanohoun quoted by Neuwinger (1996),Arnold et al. (2002), Baerts and Lehmannquoted by Neuwinger (1996), Cunningham(1988), Dlamini (1981), Hutchings and Johnson(1986), Hutchings et al. (1996), Hutchings andVan Staden (1994), Jacot Guillarmod (1971),Kokwaro quoted by Neuwinger (1996), Lall andMeyer (1999) e, Lourens et al. (2004) e,Mathekga and Meyer (1998) e, Mathekga(2001) e, Neuwinger (1996), Pooley (1998),Pooley (2003), Rwangabo quoted byNeuwinger (1996), Smith (1966), Swanepoel(1997), Van Puyvelde et al., 1989, Van Wyk etal. (2000), Van Wyk and Gericke (2000), Wattand Breyer-Brandwijk (1962)

Plant The Southern Sotho use this plant tofumigate huts

Ointment It is mixed with fat to form pleasantlysmelling ointment, formerly only usedby wives of chiefs

Leaf Ash is rubbed intoscarications

Insanity, possession

Burnt as incense Used to invoke the goodwill of theancestors, protective charm

Tea Aids sleep, relieves muscle tension andcramps

Plant, leaf, stems Smoke inhaled Used as a sedative and to treatinsomnia and as protective cleanser.

Root Colds, coughsLeafy twigs Ash is eaten CoughsLeaf and twigs Extract or sap used as eye

dropConjunctivitis

Decoction Abdominal painAerial parts Extract Used to treat dehydrationLeaf Sap Heartburn, atulenceRoot Extract Purgative (extract is drunk)Leaf Ash is eaten Vomiting

Tea Colic and stitchLeaf Decoction Febrile convulsions (part of

preparation)Leaf Smoke inhaled HeadacheLeaf Infusion Fever (also used as wash)Leaf and twigs Decoction Used to treat female sterility,

menstrual pain and eczema in RwandaLeafy twigs Decoction Tonic for pregnant womenLeaf Decoction Galactagoque

Used a bedding material since it is aneffective insect repellent. Soldcommercially. The Xhosa also use theplant for spiritual purposes, as afumigant when a baby is born

Helichrysum oreophilum Klatt 21 B, Fd Mathekga and Meyer (1998) e, Mathekga(2001) e

Helichrysum pallidum DC. (=Helichrysumagrostophilum Klatt (in part) =Helichrysumundatum (Thunb.) Less. var. agrostophilum(Klatt) Moeser =Helichrysum undatum var.pallidum 23h

Preventative charm for illness M Arnold et al. (2002), Jacot Guillarmod (1971)(Helichrysum undatum var. agrostophilum)g,Phillips (1917) (Helichrysum undatum Less., var.pallidum and Helichrysum agrostophilum Klatt)g

Burnt as fuel in winterRoots Bathing in decoction The act of forgetting, The bath is

suppose to make a person invisible/orforgotten by his enemies, witchcraft

Helichrysum panduratum O. Hoffm. 18 Leaf Decoction Febrile convulsions in children (part ofa preparation)

P, Infect A, I Adjanohoun quoted by Neuwinger (1996),Haerdi quoted by Neuwinger (1996),Neuwinger (1996), Neuwinger (1996), Pooley(1998), Swanepoel (1997) e

Plant Sap Used to treat malaria in childrenUsed to make herbal tea

Helichrysum pandurifolium Schrank.(=Helichrysum auriculatum Less.) 18

Infusion, demulcent Respiratory conditions Resp, P, Ca,Renal

Arnold et al. (2002), Roberts (1990)(Helichrysum auriculatum Less.)g, Rood (1994),Smith (1966) (Helichrysum auriculatum Less.)g,Swanepoel (1997), Watt and Breyer-Brandwijk(1962) (Helichrysum auriculatum Less.)g

Backpain, heart trouble, kidneydisease, kidney stonesHistorically been used as a tea

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Helichrysum patulum (L.). Don. (=Helichrysumcrispum Less.) 18

Heart trouble, backache, kidneydisease, also heart weakness (alsoheart treatment in animals). Stress andfatigue

P, Ca, Renal,Resp

Neuwinger (1996) (Helichrysum crispum Less.)g,Roberts (1990) (Helichrysum crispum)g, Scott etal. (2004), Smith (1966) (Helichrysum crispumLess.)g, Watt and Breyer-Brandwijk (1962)(Helichrysum crispum Less.)gInfusion Hyperpiesa, (hyperpepsia is probably a

spelling error in Neuwinger), coronarythrombosis, bladderconditions/infectionsAsthma, InuenzaGynaecological disordersUsed as bedding

Helichrysum pedunculatum Hilliard and Burtt(=Helichrysum pedunculare DC.) 23

Leaf and root As an antiseptic and to induce fasthealing: used after circumcision toprevent inammation externally

W, Resp, Infect,GIT

B Arnold et al. (2002), Batten and Bokelmann(1966) (Helichrysum pedunculare DC.g, isiCwei ,isiGqutsii , Xhosa), Bhat and Jacobs (1995)(Helichrysum pedunculatum Hilliard and Burttg,isiCwei , siGgutsii , Xhosa), Dilika et al. (1997) e,Gerstner (1938) (Helichrysum pedunculare DC.g,isiCwei , Zulu), Githens (1949) (Helichrysumpedunculareg, isicwei , Zulu), Hutchings et al.(1996) (Helichrysum pedunculatum Hilliard etBurtt)g, Meyer and Dilika (1996) e, Rood (1994)(Helichrysum pedunculatumg, erykuei , Fingo),Smith (1895) (Helichrysum pedunculare DC.g,isiCwee), Smith (1966) (Helichrysumpedunculare DC.)g, Neuwinger (1996)(Helichrysum pedunculatum Hilliard andBurtt)g, Swanepoel (1997), Watt andBreyer-Brandwijk (1962) (Helichrysumpedunculare DC.)g

Also externally applied to wounds andused for infections of the respiratorytractAs an antisepticStomach ailments

Helichrysum petiolare Hilliard and Burtt 18 Coughs, colds, catarrh, headache, fever,menstrual disorders, urinary tractinfections

Bd Arnold et al. (2002), Lourens et al. (2004) e,Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden, Neuwinger(1996), Roberts (1990) (Helichrysumpeteolatum)g, Scott et al. (2004), Smith (1966)(Helichrysum petiolatum DC.)g, Van Wyk et al.(2000)

Leaf Antiseptic wound dressingTea Tea taken for heart conditions, stress,

hypertension, anxiety andover-excitementUsed as bedding

Helichrysum platypterum DC. 20 Root Decoction Renew virility in men Vi Arnold et al. (2002), Jacot Guillarmod (1971),Phillips (1917), Watt and Breyer-Brandwijk(1962), Jakupovic et al., 1987Root Crushed and sucked

Helichrysum psilolepis Harv. 22 Root Decoction Dysmenorrhoea P Bd, Fd Arnold et al. (2002), Jacot Guillarmod (1971),Mathekga (2001) e, Phillips (1917), Neuwinger(1996), Watt and Breyer-Brandwijk (1962)Used to weave hats

Helichrysum rotundatum (=H coriaceum(DC.) Harv.)f

Used as tea NS Smith (1966) (Helichrysum coriaceum Sond.)g

Helichrysum rugulosum Less. 9 Protective charm (with Helichrysumcallicomum and Aster bakerianus

M, GIT, Fum Bd, Fd Arnold et al. (2002), Dlamini (1981), JacotGuillarmod (1971), Mathekga and Meyer(1998) e, Mathekga (2001) e, Phillips (1917),Pooley (1998), Pooley (2003), Watt andBreyer-Brandwijk (1962)

Enema Colic (an ingredient)Used to fumigate huts when childrenare ill (cold)

Helichrysum setosum Harv. 30 Love potion M, Epilepsy,Fum, Snakebite

Chabra quoted by Neuwinger (1996), JacotGuillarmod (1971), Lucas and Pike (1971),Neuwinger (1996), Phillips (1917), Watt andBreyer-Brandwijk (1962)

Leaf Decoction EpilepsyFumigate rooms

Root Powdered and rubbed intothe wound

Snakebite, roots are also mixed withthe esh of the snake and put in thepatients porridge

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Biologicalactivityb

References

Helichrysum simillimum DC. 8 Bd, Fd Mathekga (2001) e

Helichrysum splendidum (Thunb.) Less. 22 Roots Used to treat rheumatism P, Skin Arnold et al. (2002), Dlamini (1981), JacotGuillarmod (1971), Pooley (2003), Swanepoel(1997)

Fuel plant in the mountainsLeaf The leaves are boiled and the steam

inhaled to induce sweatingIt is used together with Senecio speciesto treat pimples

Helichrysum subglomeratum Less. 6 Aerial parts Smoke inhaled Headaches P I Jger et al. (1996) e

Helichrysum sutherlandii Harv. 17 Plant Burnt, powdered plantmaterial

Powder applied to cuts in the skin of asick person

M Bd, Fd Arnold et al. (2002), Jacot Guillarmod (1971),Mathekga (2001) e, Phillips (1917), Pooley(1998), Pooley (2003), Watt andBreyer-Brandwijk (1962)

Helichrysum tenax M.D. Hend var. tenax(=Helichrysum fulgidum (L.f) Willd. 30h

Decoction Used for washing sore eyes Eye Bd, Fd Arnold et al. (2002) (Helichrysum fulgidum (L.f)Willd.)g, Batten and Bokelmann (1966)(Helichrysum fulgidum Willd.)g, Drewes et al.(2006) e, Jacot Guillarmod (1971) (Helichrysumfulgidum (L.) Willd.)g, Phillips (1917)(Helichrysum fulgidum Willd.)g

Helichrysum tomentosulum (Klatt) Merxm 1 Used as a perfume (subsp.) aromaticum P, Renal Neuwinger (1996), Van Wyk and Gericke(2000), Von Koenen (2001)Twigs Extract Twigs are pounded in water and used

as mouth wash for tooth achePlant Smoke inhaled The entire plant is placed on red hot

coals and smoke inhaled for body pain.The same treatment is used bypregnant women suffering fromantepartum haemorrhage

Root Decoction Bladder problems (dribbling)Used as thatching.

Helichrysum trilineatum DC. 22 Bd, Fd Bremner and Meyer (1998) e, Mathekga(2001) e

Helichrysum umbraculigerum Less. 5 Heavily grazed Bd, Fd Mathekga (2001) e, Pooley (1998)Helichrysum uninervium Burtt Davy 12 The Swazi use the plant as a purgative

or an emetic. They add one teaspoon ofthe plant to soft porridge which is theneaten by the patient

GIT Swanepoel (1997)

a Where the species name has been changed, the previously accepted name is given in brackets. The following species are no longer classied as Helichrysum: Helichrysum capillaceum (Thunb.) Less. (Phillips, 1917; JacotGuillarmod, 1971; Watt and Breyer-Brandwijk, 1962) accepted name now Troglophyton capillaceum subsp. capillaceum (Thunb.) Hilliard and B.L. Burtt (Gibbs Russell et al., 1987); Helichrysum orbiculare (Thunb.) Druce (Smith,1966) accepted name now Plecostachys serpyllifolia (P.J, Bergius) Hilliard and B.L.Burtt (Gibbs Russell et al., 1987); Helichrysum sesamoides Willd. (Smith, 1966) accepted name now Edmondia sesamoides (L.) Hilliard (Gibbs Russellet al., 1987); Helichrysum vestitum (L.) Willd. (Smith, 1966) accepted name now Syncarpha vestita (L.) B. Nord. (Gibbs Russell et al., 1987); Helichrysum hochstetteri (A. Rich) Hook. F. (Githens, 1949) and Helichrysum stenopterumDC. (Dlamini, 1981) accepted name now Achyrocline stenoptera (DC.) Hilliard (Gibbs Russell et al., 1987).

b Abbreviations used: A=analgesic activity determined; Anth= anthelmintic; B = antibacterial activity determined; Ca= cardiac conditions; Eye=used in eye conditions; F = antifungal activity determined; Fum=used as fumi-gant, often plants are burnt in roomof a sick person; GIT = gastrointestinal conditions, which includemainly colic, nausea and vomiting, diarrhoea and stomach pain; I = anti-inammatory activity determined; Infect = conditionsassociated with infections, such as gonorrhoea and smallpox; Inam=conditions associated with inammation such as swelling, menstrual pain; Insect =plants are used to deter insects such as red mites; M=used in a magicalsense, to invoke the goodwill of the ancestors and as charms (protective, love); My=antimycobacterial activity determined; NS=not specied; P = conditions associated with pain, inammation and fever, which includeheadache, convulsions and dysmenorrhoea; Pl = antiplasmodial (antimalarial) activity determined; Psy =psychotropic useplants that are used to induce trances; Psyc =psychological conditions such as inuresis in childrenand insomnia; Poi =possible poison, mainly when stock ingest excessive amounts; Renal = conditions associated with kidney and bladder problems; Resp= respiratory conditions, which include colds, coughs, u, tuberculosis;Skin =used for skin conditions such as keloid scars, abscesses, as ointments; W=used to dress wounds; V=antiviral activity determined; Vi =used for virility in men.

c The number refers to the morphological group according to Hilliard (1983).d Antimicrobial activity of 1mg/ml or less observed for one or more micro-organisms.e Reference associated with biological activity.f In some cases the author name, as indicated in the source, is not present in either Hilliard (1983) or Germishuizen and Meyer (2003). The current author is then chosen.g In cases where the name in the source and the current name differ, the name used in the source is indicated in brackets for clarication.h In cases where the old name is used to describe two different species in the current system, the uses are indicated under both the current names.i Vernacular name.

A.C.U. Lourens et al. / Journal of Ethnopharmacology 119 (2008) 630652 639

In some cases, one species name was changed to another, forexample Helichrysum adscendens Less. var. cephaloideum Moeser.in Watt and Breyer-Brandwijk (1962) is now known as Helichry-sum cephalnow belonglaceum (Thuclassied as1983).

Sometimname refercephalum Sand not HelGermishuizJacot GuillaBrandwijk (is now rec(2002) thermentionedcalocephalu

The speccrispum isous. Germicrispum ofulum (L.) DIn Watt anname appeing Helichrthe nameSmith, 196Watt and Bsum crispumto which pnal uses arBreyer-Branco-workersDon. had wdomonas aeuse the namcating its t(1962). Scoantimicrobidiffusion ascontrol, whwell to thoHelichrysummaking excimpossible.

Helichrytunate andHelichrysumrefer to eior HelichryHelichrysumArnold et anacular naBreyer-Branand Jacobs (is similar. A(L.) DC. isSweet.

In somean author(Watt andHelichrysum(Germishui

2.2. Administration routes

Plant parts used include the leaves, stems, owers, roots andmesrentandvnds

ownmosulichrhat t, notrefer

aditio

tradd innalce tren us

asintese conandatismo use

rrela

ts frandc molatio, 198

f thetalitiysumho ars.H

ichrylichrium (mosucmeysumintsemedmokokedk, fo

istratcme.thAfts. Bos to gand

piratroupchrys23)iculaused30)oideum DC. In other instances, a Helichrysum speciess to a different genus for example, Helichrysum capil-nb.) Less. (Watt and Breyer-Brandwijk, 1962) is nowTroglophyton capillaceum subsp. capillaceum (Hilliard,

es the same species name with only a different authors to a different species, for example Helichrysum calo-chltr, which is now classied as Helichrysum ecklonisichrysum calocephalum Klatt (Gibbs Russell et al., 1987;en and Meyer, 2003). Batten and Bokelmann (1966),rmod (1971), Phillips (1917) and Watt and Breyer-1962) all used Helichrysum calocephalum Schltr., whichognised as Helichrysum ecklonis, but in Arnold et al.e is no reference to Helichrysum ecklonis yet the above-sources are used as references under Helichrysumm Klatt.ic Helichrysum species referred to when Helichrysumused in ethnobotanical literature is also ambigu-shuizen and Meyer (2003) stated that Helichrysumauthors other than (L.) D. Don. is Helichrysum pat-. Don. and not Helichrysum crispum (L.) D. Don.d Breyer-Brandwijk (1962) and Smith (1966), thears as Helichrysum crispum Less. therefore indicat-ysum patulum, although Arnold et al. (2002) citedHelichrysum crispum (L.) D. Don. (with reference to6) as well as Helichrysum patulum with reference toreyer-Brandwijk (1962). Roberts (1990) used Helichry-

without an author name, causing uncertainty asarticular species is referred to; the cited medici-e however similar to those indicated by Watt anddwijk (1962) for Helichrysum crispum Less. Salie and(1996) determined that Helichrysum crispum (L.) D.eak (10mg/ml) antimicrobial activity against Pseu-

ruginosa. Both Salie et al. (1996) and Swanepoel (1997)e Helichrysum crispum (L.) D. Don., but when indi-

raditional uses refer to Watt and Breyer-Brandwijktt et al. (2004) showed that Helichrysum patulum hadal activity against Staphylococcus aureus in the discsay that was comparable to that of the ciprooxacinile the traditional uses indicated correspond veryse reported in Watt and Breyer-Brandwijk (1962) forcrispum Less. Both species occur in the same regionlusion of one species on the basis of distribution

sum pedunculare DC. is another name with an unfor-confusing history. In this case, it seems thatpedunculare DC. in ethnobotanical literature could

ther Helichrysum pedunculatum Hilliard and Burttsum nudifolium var. pilosellum (previously known aspedunculare (L.) DC. var. pilosellum) (Hilliard, 1983;

l., 2002; Germishuizen and Meyer, 2003). The ver-me and uses indicated by for example Watt anddwijk (1962) for Helichrysum pedunculare DC. and Bhat1995) for Helichrysum pedunculatum Hilliard and Burtt.ccording to Hilliard (1983), Helichrysum peduncularealso a synonym for Helichrysum odoratissimum (L.)

instances it is impossible to decide to which speciesrefers, for example Helichrysum agrostophilum KlattBreyer-Brandwijk, 1962) that was in part changed topallidum DC. and in part to Helichrysum griseum Sond

zen and Meyer, 2003).

sometiin diffesmokeon wouare knsum cyand Hecates t(2000)than p

2.3. Tr

Themarisetraditioto induare oftappliedgastro-also eyof painrheumand als

2.4. Cogroups

Planinallyspecibe a reHilliarduses osum naHelichrimphepancestoas, Hel18), HenudifolsumcymelanaHelichrcomplathese rleaf is sare smis drunadminmelana

Souailmenbelongdiseaseand resfrom gof Heli(groupappendare all(groupthe whole plant. The plant remedies are administeredways, including the preparation of teas, inhalation ofapours andplacementof leaves in the formof apoulticeto prevent infection (Table 1). Several of these speciesby the same vernacular names, for example Helichry-m, Helichrysum nudifolium, Helichrysum odoratissimumysum petiolare are all known as imphepho which indi-hey can be used interchangeably, as Van Wyk et al.ed that use often depends on local availability ratherence for a particular species.

nal uses of South African Helichrysum species

itional uses of Helichrysum in South Africa are sum-Table 1. There are several recurring South African

uses for plants from this genus. Smoke is often inhaledances or to invoke the goodwill of the ancestors. Theyed to treat respiratory conditions and leaves are oftenwound dressings. They are used in the treatment oftinal disorders such as abdominal pain and colic andditions. They also seem to have an effect on the reliefinammation as they are used to treat menstrual pain,and headaches. The plants are used to fumigate hutsd as bedding to repel insects.

tion between medicinal uses and morphological

om almost all morphological groups are used medic-the broad spectrum of uses are not restricted to arphological group. In some cases there does seem tonship between the morphological group (according to3)oradjacentmorphological classesand the traditionalse plants. Helichrysum epapposum (group 3), Helichry-um (group 3), Helichrysum gymnocomum (group 4) andodoratissimum (group4) all share theZulu/Xhosaname

nd all are burnt as incense to invoke the goodwill of theowever, this particularuseapplies tomanyspecies suchsum cymosum (group 8), Helichrysum petiolare (groupysum dregeanum (30) and in some sources Helichrysum23) share the same vernacular name and use. Helichry-m (group8),Helichrysumkraussii (group8),Helichrysum(group 8), Helichrysum athrixiifolium (group 9) anddregeanum (group 9) are all used to treat respiratory

such as coughs and colds. The administration route ofies dohowever vary; forHelichrysumarthrixiifolium theed, for Helichrysum kraussii the dried owers and seedsin apipe, forHelichrysumcymosum adecoctionof leavesr Helichrysum dregeanum the leaf is smoked and theion route is not indicated in the source for Helichrysum

ricanspeciesarenotoftenused to treatheart andkidneythHelichrysum pandurifolium andHelichrysum patulumroup 18, and are indicated in the treatment of kidneyheart disorders. Both are also used to treat backpainory conditions by the sameadministration route. Plantss 23 and 24 are often used to treat wounds. The leavesum miconiifolium (group 23), Helichrysum nudifolium, Helichrysum pedunculatum (group 23), Helichrysumtum (group 24) and Helichrysum longifolium (group 24)as wound dressings. However, Helichrysum foetidum

is mentioned as a replacement for Helichrysum pedun-

640 A.C.U. Lourens et al. / Journal of Ethnopharmacology 119 (2008) 630652

culatum in the treatment of circumcision wounds (Gerstner, 1938).The species constituting group 23 are also used for respiratoryconditions including, Helichrysum mundtii, Helichrysum nudifoliumand Helichrsum adenocare used toHelichrysumtroubles. Itfor the treaHelichrysum

3. Phytoch

The cheof chemicapublication1980a; Jakutotal of 63chemically.African HeliAcylphloroganyl side chacyl CoA deseem to behumulone d(Jakupovic

Flavonoimonandoft1979a,d; Jakplants fromand 8-hydrquent as invariety of ccones (11), p(9) or geranare often arelated avacutatum (sum cymosu(Jakupovic

The presin plants frand they aret al., 1980;penes occuet al., 1989Bohlmann eskeletal typ(Hegnauer,widely distguaianolidegroups 10 amaticity anoils of someVan Vuurencommon tr

Anotherderivativesspecies suchThese thiopchloro-acet1979b,c). Siwith pyranrine substit

Gnaphaliineae (Harborne, 1977).As for the traditional uses, one particular class of compound is

not restricted to a particular morphologic group. However, theree cos. Foavossesost an plauantgatedal spe onigerothuminly

otheruiterougropeemicovic

logic

ti-in

sideenttionindiantiof

he U(Ta

p ofam-ptilis,negaoniaextracandr dilolayailika200wa

illusum, Ckga,ortsthe

entemg/mampf 10ndido 0.3a and(Vanhrysthumlinumlococysum pedunculatum. Root decoctions of both Helichry-arpum and Helichrysum ecklonis belonging to group 28treat diarrhoea in children, while a root infusion fromargyrophyllum (group 29) is used to treat intestinal

is interesting to note that the only two species indicatedtment of snakebite both belong to group 30, namelycooperi and Helichrysum setosum.

emistry

mistry of this genus is complex with a wide varietyl classes occurring as is evident from the three majors by Bohlmann and Jakupovic (Bohlmann and Zdero,povic et al., 1986; Jakupovic et al., 1989) in which aSouth African Helichrysum species were investigatedThe classes of compounds isolated from the Southchrysum species are summarised in Table 2 and Fig. 1.lucinols (13) are common, often with prenyl or ger-ains. The replacement of the cinnamic moiety by otherrivatives in the biosynthesis of the main constituentscharacteristic (Jakupovic et al., 1989). The presence oferivatives, such as helihumulone (4) is alsowidespread

et al., 1989).ds (511) derived from phloroglucinol are very com-enhaveunsubstitutedB rings (BohlmannandAbraham,upovic et al., 1986) which is a characteristic feature ofthe Inuleae tribe (Harborne, 1977). The presence of 6-

oxyavonols and their methyl ethers (7) are also fre-other members of the tribe (Harborne, 1977). A wide

halcones (810) are also found, including dihydrochal-yranochalcones (10) and those substituted with prenylyl groups. As in other Inuleae species, these chalconesccompanied by their structurally and biogeneticallyanones (Harborne, 1977) as can be seen for Helichrysum5 and 8) (Bohlmann and Abraham, 1979c), Helichry-m (Jakupovic et al., 1989) and Helichrysum oreophilum

et al., 1986).ence of -pyrones (12) is rather common (they occurom morphologic groups 1, 2, 4, 12, 15, 18, 19 and 24)e often isolated from the roots of these plants (HnselJakupovic et al., 1986, 1989). Different types of diter-

r; these include the kaurenoic acid type (15, Jakupovic) as well as those derived from helifulvanic acid (13,t al., 1980b). Sesquiterpenes representing a variety ofes occur, as is characteristic for the rest of the family1977). Some skeletal types, such as the humulenes, areributed across the genus, whereas others such as thes (16) are restricted to a few species (morphologicalnd 22). Helichrysum species are known for their aro-

d a variety ofmonoterpenes are reported in the essentialspecies (Lourens et al., 2004; Frum and Viljoen, 2006;et al., 2006; Asekun et al., 2007). Squalene is the most

iterpene found and is often in high concentration.unusual type of compound that occurs is thiophene(17, 18) which have been isolated from the roots ofas Helichrysum acutatum and Helichrysum tenuifolium.

henes are the result of addition reactions of a commonylene precursor with H2S (Bohlmann and Abraham,mple polyacetylenes (20) are widespread. Acetylenics(19) and furan moieties, some with epoxy and/or chlo-ution, occur in these plants and is characteristic of the

are somcal clasto theical clain almfound ilarge qinvestichemicto be thcannabdasyantainmain thein sesq

Alththe Euare ch(Jakup

4. Bio

4.1. An

Contreatmapplicastrongexhibitactivityfrom tspeciesa grouthe Grlus subGram-pneumtone ewatering agaand Af1997; DMeyer,activityAspergumerin(Mathe

Repincludedocumthan4SteenkMICs oand Ca0.078 tbacteriextractofHelicdasyansum feStaphympounds that occur mainly in a specic morphologi-r example, phloroglucinols (excluding those belongingnoid class) feature as major compounds in morpholog-2, 3, 4, 12, 14, 15, 20, 24 and 28. Flavonoids are presentll of the morphological groups, but a large number arents from groups 8, 9 and 27. Diterpeneswere isolated inities from species in groups 23, 25 and 30 (all 10 plantsin this group had this type of compound as the major

ecies).Helichrysumumbraculigerum fromgroup5seemsly species investigated that contains compounds of thel type (21) as the major constituent and Helichrysum(group10) andHelichrysumsplendidum (group22) con-sesquiterpenes of the guaianolide type (which is absentspecies). Plants from groups 6, 18 and 19 are also richpenes (Table 2).h there seem to be similarities in the chemistry ofan and South African species, the Australian speciesally different from their South African counterpartset al., 1989, 1989a).

al activity

fective activity

ring the traditional uses of this genus (specically theof wounds and respiratory tract infections and theas a fumigant for example), there seems to be a

cation that these plants and their compounds shouldmicrobial activity. Several studies on the antimicrobialHelichrysum species was done by the group of Meyerniversity of Pretoria, South Africa. Extracts of severalble 1) were submitted to antibacterial testing usingrandomly selected bacteria which normally includedositive bacteria: Bacillus cereus, Bacillus pumilis, Bacil-Micrococcus kristinae, Staphylococcus aureus and the

tives: Enterobacter cloaceae, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Serratia marcescens. Ace-ts were mostly tested, but in a few cases methanol,dichloromethane extracts were used. Assays involv-ution and direct autobiography were employed (Meyern, 1995; Meyer and Dilika, 1996; Afolayan and Meyer,et al., 1997; Mathekga and Meyer, 1998; Bremner and

0; Mathekga et al., 2000; Mathekga, 2001). Antifungals also determined for fungi such as Aspergillus avus,niger, Cladosporium cladosporioides, Cladosporium cuc-ladosporium sphaerospermum and Phytophthora capsici2001).on antimicrobial activities from other laboratoriesrelatively weak antimicrobial activity (Gibbons, 2004)d for extracts of Helichrysum foetidum (MICs of morel against all selectedbacteria in the96-well plate assay,

et al. (2004) andHelichrysum crispum (L.) D. Don.wheremg/ml were reported against Pseudomonas aeruginosaa albicans (Salie et al., 1996). Activities ranging frommg/ml against Gram-positive bacteria, Gram-negativeyeasts were also reported for a Helichrysum cymosumVuuren et al., 2006). Acetone and methanol extracts

umodoratissimum (incorrectly identied asHelichrysumin Lourens et al., 2004), Helichrysum excisum, Helichry-and Helichrysum petiolare displayed activity against

cus aureus and Bacillus cereus. The species with the best

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Table 2Classes of compounds isolated from South African Helichrysum species

Species Morphologic group Flavonoid derivativesa,b Phloroglucinolsb Pyronesb Diterpenesb Terpenesb Otherb Reference

A B C D E F

Helichrysum acutatum DC.c 21 X X X X X Bohlmann and Abraham (1979c)Roots and aerial parts

Helichrysum adenocarpum DC.c 28 X Bohlmann et al. (1980a)Roots and aerial parts

Helichrysum albirosulatum Killick 6 X X Bohlmann et al. (1980a), Bohlmannet al. (1978a)Roots and aerial parts

Helichrysum allioides Less. 23 X Bohlmann and Zdero (1973)Roots

Helichrysum anomalum Less. 9 X X Jakupovic et al. (1989)Aerial parts

Helichrysum appendiculatum (L.f.)c

Less.24 X Bohlmann et al. (1980a)

Aerial parts

Helichrysum argentissimum J.M.Wood.

28 X X X Bohlmann et al. (1980a)

Roots

Helichrysum argyrolepis MacOwan 29 X X Bohlmann et al. (1984)Aerial parts

Helichrysum argyrophyllum DC.c 29 X X X XX Jakupovic et al. (1989), Bohlmannand Zdero (1973)Aerial parts and roots

Helichrysum asperum (Thunb.)Hilliard et Burtt. var. albidulum(DC.) Hilliard

12 XXXX Jakupovic et al. (1989)

Aerial parts

Helichrysum athrixiifolium(Kuntze)c

9 X X Bohlmann and Ates (1984)

MoeserAerial parts and roots

Helichrysum aureonitens Sch. Bip.c 8 X XX X Bohlmann and Ziesche (1979),Afolayan and Meyer (1997), Meyeret al. (1997)

Roots and aerial parts

Helichrysum aureum (Houtt.) Merr.c 30 XX X Jakupovic et al. (1989)Aerial parts and roots

Helichrysum aureum (Houtt.) Merr.var. monocephalum (DC.) Hilliard

30 XX X Bohlmann et al. (1978a)

Aerial parts and roots

Helichrysum auriceps Hilliard 24 X X X Bohlmann and Zdero (1980)Roots

Helichrysum bellum Hilliard 28 X X X X Bohlmann and Zdero (1979a)Aerial parts and roots

Helichrysum caespititium DC. Harv.c 12 X Dekker et al. (1983), Mathekga etal. (2000)Whole plant

Aerial parts

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A B C D E F

Helichrysum callicomum Harv.c 2 X XX X X XX X Bohlmann and Abraham (1979a)(Helichrysum calliconumd)Bohlmann et al. (1984)


Helichrysum candolleanum H. Buek 15 X X Jakupovic et al. (1989)Aerial parts

Helichrysum cephaloideum DC. 24 X XXX XX X Hnsel et al. (1980), Bohlmann andZdero (1980), Jakupovic et al.(1986)


Helichrysum cerastioides DC. 15 X X X Bohlmann et al. (1984), Jakupovicet al. (1989) (Helichrysumcerastroides DC. supsp. aurosicumMerxm. et A. Schreiberd)

Aerial parts

Helichrysum chionosphaerum DC. 25 X XXX XX X Bohlmann et al. (1980b), Jakupovicet al. (1989)Aerial parts and roots

Helichrysum chrysargyrum Moeser 22 X XX X Bohlmann et al. (1979a)Aerial parts and roots

Helichrysum confertum N.E.Br 17 XX Bohlmann et al. (1978a)Roots

Helichrysum cooperi Harv.c 30 X X Bohlmann et al. (1978a)Roots and aerial parts

Helichrysum cooperi ps. aff.Helichrysum cooperi Harv.

? X Wright (1976)

Helichrysum cymosum (L.) D. Don.c 8 XX X X X X Jakupovic et al. (1989)Aerial parts

Helichrysum cymosum (L.) Don.ssp.c calvum

8 XX X X Bohlmann et al. (1979b)


Helichrysum cymosum (L.) D. Don.c

ssp. cymosum8 X Van Vuuren et al. (2006)

Helichrysum dasyanthum (Willd.) 10 X X XX X Jakupovic et al. (1989)SweetAerial parts

Helichrysum dasymallum Hilliard(=Helichrysum lanatum Harv.)

21 X Bohlmann and Zdero (1973)(Helichrysum lanatum DC.d)

Roots

Helichrysum decorum DC.c 30 X Bohlmann et al. (1980a)Aerial parts

Helichrysum drakensbergense Killick 19 X X XX X Bohlmann and Suwita (1979)Roots and aerial parts

Helichrysum dregeanum Sond. andHarv.c

9 X X X X Jakupovic et al. (1989)

Aerial parts

Helichrysum felinum Less. 17 X X X Jakupovic et al. (1989)Aerial parts

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630652643

Helichrysum anaganii Bolusc 13 X Bohlmann et al. (1980a)Aerial parts and roots

Helichrysum foetidum (L.) Moench.c 30 X Bohlmann and Zdero (1973)Roots

Helichrysum fulvum N. E. Br. 30 XX X Bohlmann et al. (1979c)Aerial parts and roots

Helichrysum glaciale Hilliard 27 X Bohlmann et al. (1980a)Aerial parts

Helichrysum glomeratum Klatt 6 X X XX Bohlmann and Suwita (1979)Aerial parts

Helichrysum grandiorum (L.) D.Don.

17 X Bohlmann and Zdero (1973)

Roots

Helichrysum gymnocomum DC.c 4 XX X Bohlmann and Mahanta (1979)(Helichrysum gymnoconum DC.d)Roots and aerial parts

Helichrysum gymnocomum DC.c 4 X X X Drewes and Van Vuuren (2008)Flowers

Helichrysum herbaceum (Andrews)Sweetc

29 X XX X Bohlmann et al. (1979a)

Aerial parts

Helichrysum heterolasium Hilliard 30 X X XX XX X Bohlmann and Abraham (1979a)Aerial parts

Helichrysum hyphocephalumHilliard

27 XX X X X Bohlmann and Abraham (1979d)(Helichrysum hypocephalumHilliardd)Aerial parts and roots

Helichrysum indicum (L.) Griersonc 15 X Jakupovic et al. (1989)Aerial parts

Helichrysum infaustum J.M. Wood.and M.S. Evans

4 X X Bohlmann and Suwita (1979)

Aerial parts

Helichrysum kraussii Sch. Bip.c 8 X X X X X XX Jakupovic et al. (1989), Bremnerand Meyer (2000), Candy et al.(1975), Candy and Wright (1975)

Aerial parts, owers and roots

Helichrysum krebsianum Less. 23 X Bohlmann et al. (1980a)Aerial parts

Helichrysum krookii Moeser 5 XX X X Bohlmann et al. (1980a)Roots and aerial parts

Helichrysum lepidissimum S. Moore 19 X X X X Jakupovic et al. (1989)Aerial parts

Helichrysum litorale Bolusc

(=Leontonyx angustifolius DC.,=Leontonyx spathulatus Less.)

14 XX X Bohlmann and Suwita (1978)(Leontonyx spathulatus Less.d)

644

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630652



A B C D E F

Helichrysum melanacme (DC.)Harv.c

8 X X Lall et al. (2006)

Shoots

Helichrysum miconiifolium DC.c 23 X Bohlmann et al. (1980a)Roots

Helichrysum mimetes S. Moore 19 X X X XX Jakupovic et al. (1986)Aerial parts

Helichrysum mixtum (Kuntze.)Moeser

24 XX XX Jakupovic et al. (1986)

Roots

Helichrysum moeseranium Thell. 22 X X Jakupovic et al. (1989)Aerial parts

Helichrysum monticola Hilliard 28 X XX X Jakupovic et al. (1989), Bohlmannand Zdero (1980a)Aerial parts and roots

Helichrysum mundtii Harv.c

(=Helichrysum mundii Harv.)d23 X X X X Bohlmann et al. (1978b), Bohlmann

et al. (1980a)Roots and aerial parts

Helichrysum nanum Klatt 6 X X X Bohlmann and Suwita (1979)Aerial parts

Helichrysum natalitium DC.c 3 XX X X Bohlmann and Zdero (1979a)Aerial parts and roots

Helichrysum nudifolium L. Less. var.nudifoliumc

23 XX X XXX X Jakupovic et al. (1986), Bohlmannet al. (1978a) (Helichrysumnudifolium L. Less.d) Bohlmann andZdero (1973) (Helichrysumnudifolium L. Less.d)


Helichrysum nudifolium var.oxyphyllum (=Helichrysumoxyphyllum DC.)c

23 X X X X Bohlmann et al. (1980a)(Helichrysum oxyphyllum Klattd)

Aerial parts

Helichrysum nudifolium var.pilosellum (=Helichrysumlatifolium Less.)c

23 X Bohlmann and Zdero (1973)(Helichrysum latifolium Less.d)

Helichrysum nudifolium var.pilosellum (=Helichrysumpilosellum (L.f.) Less.)

23 XX Jakupovic et al. (1986) (Helichrysumpilosellum (L.f.) Less.d)

Roots

Helichrysum odoratissimum (L.)Sweetc

4 X X XX X X X Van Puyvelde et al. (1989), Hnselet al. (1980), Bohlmann and Zdero(1973)Aerial parts and roots

Helichrysum oreophilum Klatt. 21 X X X X X Jakupovic et al. (1986), Bohlmannet al. (1980a)Aerial parts

Helichrysum pagophilum M.D.Hend.

27 X Bohlmann et al. (1980a)

Aerial parts

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Helichrysum pallidum DC.c 23 XX X Bohlmann et al. (1980a)Aerial parts and roots

Helichrysum panduratum O.Hoffm.c 18 X Bohlmann and Abraham (1979b)Aerial parts

Helichrysum patulum (L.) D. Don.c

(=Helichrysum crispum Less.)18 XX X Bohlmann and Suwita (1979)

(Helichrysum crispum Less.d)Aerial parts

Helichrysum pedunculatum Hilliardand Burttc

23 X Dilika et al. (2000)

Leaves

Helichrysum petiolare Hilliard andB.L. Burtt.c

18 X X X X XX X Jakupovic et al. (1989), Bohlmannand Zdero (1973) (Helichrysumpetiolatum DC.d)Aerial parts

Helichrysum platypterum DC.c 20 X X X XXX X X Jakupovic et al. (1986), Bohlmannet al. (1980a), Bohlmann and Zdero(1979a), Jakupovic et al., 1987


Helichrysum polycladum Klatt 8 X X X X X Bohlmann et al. (1980a)Aerial parts and roots

Helichrysum populifolium DC. 16 X Bohlmann et al. (1980a)Roots

Helichrysum reexum N. E. Br. 29 XX XX Bohlmann et al. (1985)(Helichrysum reuxum N. E. Br.d)Aerial parts

Helichrysum revolutum (Thunb.)Less.

9 X X X Jakupovic et al. (1989)

Aerial parts

Helichrysum retortoides N.E. Br. 26 X Bohlmann et al. (1980a)Aerial parts

Helichrysum rosum (Berg.) Less. 9 X X Jakupovic et al. (1989)Aerial parts

Helichrysum nudifolium L. Less. var.nudifolium (=Helichrysumcoriaceum Harv.)

23 XX X X Bohlmann et al. (1984a)(Helichrysum coriaceum Harv.d)

Roots

Helichrysum ruderale Hilliard andB.L. Burtt.


Aerial parts

Helichrysum rugulosum Less.c 9 XX XX Bohlmann and Misra (1984)Aerial parts and roots

Helichrysum scabrum (Thunb.) Less. 9 X X Jakupovic et al. (1989)Aerial parts

Helichrysum setosum Harv.c 30 XX Jakupovic et al. (1986)Aerial parts

Helichrysum spiralepis Hilliard andBurtt. (=Leontonyx squarrosus)

14 XX X Bohlmann and Suwita (1978)(Leontonyx squarrosusd)

646

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630652Table 2 (Continued )


A B C D E F

Helichrysum splendidum (Thunb.)Less.c

22 X X XXX X Bohlmann and Suwita (1979a),Jakupovic et al. (1989)


Helichrysum subfalcatum Hilliard 6 X X Bohlmann et al. (1980a)Aerial parts

Helichrysum subglomeratum Less.c 6 X X X Jakupovic et al. (1989)Aerial parts

Helichrysum sutherlandii Harv.(=Helichrysum suterlandii Harv.)c

17 X X X X Bohlmann et al. (1978b), Bohlmannet al. (1980a)


Helichrysum swynnertonii S. MooreAerial parts and roots


Helichrysum tenax var. tenax M.D.Hend.

30 XX Drewes et al. (2006)

Leaves

Helichrysum tenuiculum DC. 8 X X X X Bohlmann et al. (1979b)Aerial parts and roots

Helichrysum tenuifolium Killick. 22 X X X X X X XX Bohlmann and Abraham (1979b)Aerial parts and roots

Helichrysum thapsus (O. Kuntze)Moeser

23 X X Bohlmann and Zdero (1983)

Aerial parts

Helichrysum tomentosulum Klatt.Merxm subsp. aromaticum(Dinter) Merxm.c

1 X X Jakupovic et al. (1989)

Aerial parts

Helichrysum tricostatum (Thunb.)Less.

11 X Jakupovic et al. (1989)

Aerial parts

Helichrysum trilineatum DC. 22 X X Bremner and Meyer (1998),Bohlmann et al. (1980a)Shoots and roots

Helichrysum umbraculigerum Less. 5 X X XXX Bohlmann and Hoffmann (1979)Aerial parts

Helichrysum vernum Hilliard 28 X X Bohlmann et al. (1980a)Roots

Helichrysum zeyheri Less. 1 X X X Jakupovic et al. (1986)Aerial parts

a A=avanone, B = chalcone, C =dihydrochalcone, D=avonol, E =avone, F = other avonoids.b X=3 or less compounds isolated; XX=49 compounds isolated; XXX=10 or more compounds isolated, XXXX=more than 20 compounds isolated.c Used in traditional medicine.d Name as used in reference.


Fig. 1. Compounds isolated from South African Helichrysum species.


activity was the acetone extract of Helichrysum odoratissimum withan MIC of 0.016mg/ml against Staphylococcus aureus (which corre-lates well with the values obtained by Mathekga and Meyer, 1998).

Helichryditions anodoratissimMycobacterMeyer, 199sum caespittuberculosismethod andmetricmethinhibition a

In somewas determof antibacttrihydroxyand Afolayabacteria (thas the Gram1997). TheMicrococcusother studi(2006), the-lactam seand 16 straMICs of appfungal activinhibition asupport theinfections, o

AnotherHelichrysumfor a broadbacteria sucpositive bacand fungi, fmicrodilutiMeyer (199for pinocemeatum), asartifact durthe owersantimicrobiGram-negawas for ex5,7-dibenzychalcones iited MICs oof Mycobachigher thantwo chalco2006).

There arpounds othbacteriawaantibacteriatreat circumfatty acidscus kristinaeof each fatt(Dilika et al

Kaurenokraussii, excoli and M

tilis, Staphylococcus aureus and Serratia marcescens (Bremner andMeyer, 2000). Signicant antimicrobial activity was also observedformonomeric (14) and dimeric diterpenes fromHelichrysum tenax

ax. Mt Bacinedosaslphlot Bacie, Stan ahlorICsoccu, Bacansrencnt ste obglucit EntosaCaeed aDekktivecoccuytesor thr et at the, Micions2000rang

illusum,kga

l Myc/ml wof H

eral cas 2

ogenessibls wecrobiglucirangele 16vity oet a

ysumnsidee ofeousivityentrain, ist Herionsso decmerenysum species are often used to treat respiratory con-d tuberculosis (Table 1). Extracts of Helichrysumum andHelichrysummelanacme showed activity againstium tuberculosis at concentrations of 0.5mg/ml (Lall and9; Lall et al., 2006). The acetone extract of Helichry-itium inhibited a drug sensitive-strain ofMycobacteriumat a concentration of 0.5mg/ml in the agar plateaMIC of 0.1mg/mlwas observed using the rapid radio-od (Meyer et al., 2002). Thewater extract causedpartialt the highest concentration of 5mg/ml.cases the antimicrobial activity of isolated compoundsined. Flavonoids are generally one of the largest classeserial compounds (Gibbons, 2004). Galangin (3,5,7-avone) isolated from Helichrysum aureonitens (Meyern, 1995), inhibited the growth of four Gram-positiveree Bacillus species and Micrococcus kristinae) as well-negative Enterobacter cloaceae (Afolayan and Meyer,highest activity observed was against Bacillus cereus,kristinae and Enterobacter cloaceae at 0.1mg/ml. In

es by Cushnie et al. (2003) and Cushnie and Lambactivity of galangin was shown against six strains ofnsitive and resistant strains of Staphylococcus aureus

ins of 4-quinolone resistant strains of the bacterium atroximately 50g/ml. Galangin also displays some anti-ity against fungi such as Aspergillus tamari (35% growtht 0.5mg/ml) (Afolayan and Meyer, 1997). These resultsuse of Helichrysum aureonitens in the treatment of skinften caused by Staphylococcus aureus.avonoid, 3-O-methylquercetin was isolated fromodoratissimum and antimicrobial activity determinedrange of micro-organisms including Gram-negativeh as Salmonella typhimurium (MIC=50g/ml), Gram-teria, such as Staphylococcus aureus (MIC=6.25g/ml)or example Candida albicans (MIC=12.5g/ml), in theon method (Van Puyvelde et al., 1989). Bremner and8) also reported on the anti-staphylococcal activitybrin chalcone (8, isolated from Helichrysum trilin-well as pinocembrin (5) that was obtained as aning the isolation procedure. Flavonoids isolated from

of Helichrysum gymnocomum exhibited promisingal activity against a wide variety of Gram-positive andtive organisms as well as yeasts. An MIC of 8g/mlample observed against Cryptococcus neoformans forloxyavanone (Drewes and Van Vuuren, 2008). Twosolated from Helichrysum melanacme (9, 10) exhib-f 0.05mg/ml against the drug sensitive H37Rv strainterium tuberculosis. The activity of the chalcones wasthat of the crude extract but a combination of the

nes did not result in an improved MIC (Lall et al.,

e also reports on the antimicrobial activity of com-er than avonoids. Activity against Gram-positive

sobserved forboth linoleic andoleic acids, isolated froml extracts of Helichrysum pedunculatum (a plant used tocision wounds, Dilika et al., 2000). The MIC of both

was 1.0mg/ml for Staphylococcus aureus and Micrococ-in the agar diffusion assay. The MICs was 0.05mg/ml

y acid when they were administered at the same time., 2000).ic acid (15, a diterpene), isolated from Helichrysumhibited a MIC as low as 1g/ml against EscherichiaICs of 10g/ml against Bacillus cereus, Bacillus sub-

var. tenagainsdetermaerugin

MICbutyryagainskristinacoli insame pand MEnterocaureusneoformA diffedifferefor thphloroagainsaerugin2008).exhibitfungi (was acCryptotagrophused n(Dekkeagainssubtiliscentratet al.,whichAspergumerin(Mathesevera0.1mgextract

Sevas lowcus pyThe poined aantimiphlorobroadexampial actiVuurenHelichrand cothis typ

Aqural acta concgalangagainscentratwas almelanalated pIC values as low as 3.1 and 3.6g/ml were determinedillus cereus whereas MICs as low as 41.5g/ml werefor a Gram-negative organism such as Pseudomonas

(Drewes et al., 2006).of 100g/ml were observed for prenylatedroglucinol (3) isolated from Helichrysum kraussiillus cereus, Bacillus pumilis, Bacillus subtilis, Micrococcusaphylococcus aureus, Serratia marcescens and Escherichiagar diffusion assay (Bremner and Meyer, 2000). Theoglucinol was isolated from Helichrysum gymnocomumof below 100g/ml (645g/ml) were reported fors faecalis, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Staphylococcusillus cereus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Cryptococcusand Candida albicans (Drewes and Van Vuuren, 2008).e in assays employed, inoculum size and possiblyrains of the same micro-organism used may accountserved difference in activity. A structurally relatednol also exhibited promising antibacterial activityerococcus faecalis, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonasand Cryptococcus neoformans (Drewes and Van Vuuren,spitin (1) and caespitate (2) (both phloroglucinols)ntimicrobial activity against several bacteria as well aser et al., 1983; Mathekga et al., 2000). Caespitin (1)against Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes,s neoformans, Trichophyton rubrum, Trichophyton men-and Microsporum canis although neither the methode level of activity, are indicated in the relevant articlel., 1983). Caespitate (2), exhibited antibacterial activityGram-positive Bacillus cereus, Bacillus pumilis, Bacillusrococcus kristinae and Staphylococcus aureus at con-of 0.5g/ml in the agar dilution method (Mathekga). This compound also exhibited antifungal activityed from 0.5 to 1.0g/ml against Aspergillus avus,niger, Cladosporium cladosporioides, Cladosporium cuc-Cladosporium sphaerospermum and Phytophtora capsiciet al., 2000). Caespitate (2) was also active againstobacterium tuberculosis strains at a concentration ofhich was similar to the MIC observed for the crude

elichrysum caespititium (Meyer et al., 2002).aespitin derivatives were synthesised with MIC valuesg/ml against Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococ-s. These compounds also exhibit antifungal activity.e development of antimicrobial resistance was exam-ll as the development of cross resistance with knownals (Van der Schyf et al., 1986). For helihumulone (4), anol of the humulone type, activity was exhibited for aof micro-organisms with some promising results, forg/ml against Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The antimalar-f this compound was determined to be 15g/ml (Vanl., 2006). As previously mentioned, the South Africans contain a large amount of phloroglucinol derivativesring the promising antimicrobial activity observed forcompound, it seems a class well worth investigating.extracts of Helichrysum aureonitens exhibited antivi-against the Herpes simplex virus type I in vitro attion of 1.35mg/ml (Meyer et al., 1996). The avone,olated from this plant also exhibited antiviral activitypes simplex virus type I and the Coxsackie virus at con-of 6g/ml (Meyer et al., 1997). The antiviral activitytermined for a crude ethanolic extract of Helichrysumand its isolated constituents. The activity of the iso-lated chalcone (9) and a pyranochalcone (10) was lower


(IC50 =0.1mg/ml) against the InuenzaAvirus than that of the crudeextract (0.01mg/ml) although a combination of the two chalconesresulted in an improved IC50 (0.01mg/ml, Lall et al., 2006).

In summof antimicrpositive oAlthough thare well docdata are scsuperior acthe crude exmaterial isto incorrectconcentrativalues of beical entitieswas used fo1996). Posiassays (Matassess the adifferent asdifferent lasuspect sinwhich is nooften not rementioneddissolve comwith galangobserved (avonoids,Helichrysumplants thatfor further s

4.2. Other b

Unpublisthat fractioanti-inamrageenan t(Swanepoeltum and Hein vitro by 6(Jger et altions of a Hthe carrage(Swanepoelifolium haspossibly du

Thegrouobtained afether, ethylextract fromin pain exEdema wascating thatproperties.mean bloodof 300mg/fraction frosum petiolathat adminmean bloodheart rateexcisum (IC5

inhibited the 5-lipoxygenase enzyme which also plays a role ininammation. Antioxidant activity (as indicated with the DPPHassay) of acetone and methanol extracts of Helichrysum odoratis-

, Helire wrich

opeamatofteninv, 200s froenarysummatord wnoidet alalsoomp002,(Szeseaof

in threvinsed otatmeia adicad et aactsysumHelig thlichr, whiysum.re apailabth Ausses weype ointerone,enol, S. epethol (Rnes i9). Pdant(Rosadinod inhpounties.outhst conSou

le w(Meary, the crude extracts generally show some degreeobial activity, which is usually higher against Gram-rganisms than against Gram-negative organisms.e antibacterial and antifungal activities of these plantsumented, antimalarial, antimycobacterial and antiviralarce. Isolated compounds sometimes exhibit moretivity when compared to the crude extract, but oftentract has similar activity. Correct identication of plantcrucial as misidentication of plant material can leadreporting (Lourens et al., 2004). The selected range of

ons is often on the high side (Gibbons, 2004, consideredlow 1mg/ml for extracts and 64g/ml for single chem-as signicant); for example a range of 10100mg/ml

rHelichrysum pedunculatum extracts (Meyer and Dilika,tive controls (antibiotics) are absent in some of thehekga et al., 2000), making it difcult to comparativelyctivity of a particular extract or compound. The fact thatsays are employed impairs comparison of data betweenboratories (assays relying on diffusion are especiallyce a low rate of diffusion would present a low activity,t always a true representation). Microbial strains areferenced and the number of colony forming units not(Meyer and Afolayan, 1995). Extracts also often do notpletely in the solvents used and as Cushnie illustrated

in (2003) this can have a profound effect on the MICsCushnie et al., 2003). Chemical classes such as theacylphloroglucinols and diterpenes from South Africanspecies exhibit promising antimicrobial activity and

contain these compounds seems potential candidatestudy.

iological data

hed work done by Noristan laboratories indicatesns of the extract of Helichrysum caespititium exhibitsmatory activity of up to 82% at 360mg/kg in the car-est done on rats and prevents platelet aggregation, 1997). Ethanolic extracts of Helichrysum subglomera-lichrysum nudifolium inhibited prostaglandin synthesis9 and 96% (50g of plant extract used), respectively

., 1996). The group at Noristan determined that frac-elichrysum nudifolium extract also reduced edema in

enan assay by approximately 30% at 300mg/kg in rats, 1997). These results indicate that Helichrysum nud-both in vitro and in vivo anti-inammatory activity,e to the inhibition of the cyclooxygenase enzymes.patNoristanobserved that the secondof three fractionster gradient column chromatography (using petroleumacetate and methanol) of a dichloromethane/methanol

Helichrysum panduratum showed a 79% reductionperienced in the writhing pain test at 500mg/kg.also reduced by 50% in the carrageenan test indi-

this plant has both anti-inammatory and analgesicIt was also antihypertensive (a reduction of 6% inpressure was observed after administering a dose

kg) and weakly antimicrobial (Swanepoel, 1997). Am a dichloromethane/methanol extract of Helichry-re investigated by the group from Noristan determinedistration of 300mg/kg of extract to mice reducedpressure by 21% and resulted in a 6% reduction in

(Swanepoel, 1997). Acetone extracts of Helichrysum0 =35g/ml) andHelichrysum felinum (IC50 =39g/ml)

simumpetiolaspecies

Eurinamquite oseldomVuurenextractsum arHelichrinamstanda(a avo(Recioity wasother c2001, 2pactummore ractivityappear

As pas incetive anthe treinsomnuses inStafforof extrHelichrlosum,by usinand HeeffectsHelichractivity

Thedata avthe Soube discpyronesame trathercatipyrand araureussion m3g/m-pyroal., 198antioxitestedAppencells anof comproperfrom S

Mofor theexampminedchrysum excisum, Helichrysum felinum and Helichrysumas comparable to that of vitamin C, as expected forin phenolic compounds (Lourens et al., 2004).

n research further highlights the antioxidant and anti-ry effects displayed by plants from this genus. It isthe owers that are investigated, a plant part that areestigated in South African research (Drewes and Van8; Table 2). Antioxidant activitywas reported for owerm Helichrysum stoechas (Carini et al., 2001), Helichry-ium (Czinner et al., 2000; Czinner et al., 2001) anditalicum (Facino et al., 1990). In vivo (topical) anti-

ry activity comparable to that of the indomethacinas observed for an acetophenone derivative, gnaphaliin) and ursolic acid isolated from Helichrysum stoechas., 1991). In vivo and in vitro anti-inammatory activ-observed for acetophenone glucosides, avonoids andounds isolated from Helichrysum italicum (Sala et al.,2003a,b) as well as for extracts from Helichrysum com-gec et al., 2005). These promising results indicate thatrch should be undertaken on the anti-inammatorySouth African species, as many similar compoundse South African and European species.ously mentioned, Helichrysum species are often burntto invoke the goodwill of the ancestors, in protec-her charms and to induce trances. It is also used innt of insanity, possession, used as a sedative to treatnd as a protective cleanser (Table 1). Their traditionalte that these plants may exhibit psychotropic effects.l. (2005) determined the GABA-receptor binding effectfrom Helichrysum argyrolepis, Helichrysum herbaceum,nudifolium, Helichrysum ruderale, Helichrysum rugu-

chrysum simillimum and Helichrysum umbraculigerume 3H-Ro 15-1788 binding assay. Helichrysum ruderaleysum umbraculigerum exhibited the most pronouncedle Helichrysum herbaceum, Helichrysum rugulosum andsimillimum showed moderate to good dose dependant

pears to be a large divide between the rich chemicalle and biological testing on compounds isolated fromfrican species. One chemical class, the -pyrones willd as an example. By our rough estimate, 28 differentre isolated from South African Helichrysum species. Thef compounds was isolated from European species andesting biological activity was observed. Italipyrone, pli-a mixture of helipyrones and a mixture of homoarenolwere all active against Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcusidermidis and Mycobacterium phlei using the agar diffu-d with the highest MIC being 25g/ml and the lowestos et al., 1991). Antifungal activity was also reported forsolated fromHelichrysumdecumbens (Toms-Lorente etyrones (like arzanol and helipyrone) showed signicantactivity and arzanol was not toxic at all concentrationset al., 2007). Most interesting though is the ndings by

et al. (2007) that arzanol inhibits HIV-I replication in T-ibitedNF-B (IC50 =5g/ml) indicating that this groupds may exhibit both antiviral and anti-inammatory

To our knowledge, none of the unique pyrones isolatedAfrican species were evaluated for biological activity.cerning is the almost complete absence of toxicity data

th African species of this genus. In very few cases, forhere antiviral and antimalarial activities were deter-yer et al., 1996, 1997; Lall et al., 2006; Van Vuuren


et al., 2006) toxicity is mentioned. Toxicity of the diterpenesis well known (for example IC50 values of below 4g/ml wasreported for three diterpene lactones from Parinari capensis; Uys etal., 2002), aof these coReid et al. (mutagenicinudifolium,sum simillimplants thatnamely Helosum (at 5These resuland safety dto be a largeffectivenesvalidated in

5. Conclus

Helichryin South Atreatmentrespiratoryphologicaldiversity asfrom the gtional usescomplexityactivities ofThe genustive and sethe importaing on ethnis an intersication aa specic mcompoundsnols and -species theysearch of nshow potenand -pyroand FairlamHelichrysumtochemicaldata to costill lackinga multidiscethnopharm

Acknowled

The authNational Bioon name chdation (Sou

References

Afolayan, A.JtrihydroxyJournal of

Appendino, GO., FiebichphlrogluciNatural Pr

Arnold, T.H., Prentice, C.A., Hawker, L.C., Snyman, E.E., Tomalin, M., Crouch, N.R.,Pottas-Bircher, C., 2002. Medicinal and Magical Plants of Southern Africa: anAnnotated Checklist. National Botanical Institute, Pretoria, pp. 3234.

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lied Sc., Bokrica, C., Jacopharn, F.,

Helich891.n, F.,indun18, 83n, F.,ochemn, F.,cephan, F.,

fulvanochemn, F.,m. Phn, F.,Helicn, F.hrysun, F., Kativen, F.,

noconn, F.frikann, F., Mrugulon, F.,ate aun, F.,

ie wei9291n, F., Sochemn, F.,hrysun, F.,t.) Win, F.,und Hn, F.,ochemn, F.,ticola.n, F., Z8772n, F., Zneue D. Phyn, F.,

rpeneistryn, F.,s Diteemistn, F.,elich1378n, F.,hrysun, F., Ziche V, P.D.,Helic, P.D.,antibatany.A., Laacylat2111.A., WHelic28, 21., Ald

trap Mnd several Helichrysum species contain high amountsmpounds, to name but one example. Furthermore,2006) screened 42 medicinal South African plants forty, which included Helichrysum herbaceum, HelichrysumHelichrysum ruderale, Helichrysum rugulosum, Helichry-um and Helichrysum umbraculigerum. The only threeshowed mutagenic activity were all Helichrysums,

lichrysum herbaceum (at 5mg/ml), Helichrysum rugu-mg/ml) and Helichrysum simillimum (at 0.05mg/ml).ts highlight both the need and importance of toxicityata for plants of this genus. In general, there also seemse need for in vivo validation of in vitro results since thes of these extracts and their compounds have not beenliving organisms.

ion

sum species are used extensively in ethnomedicinefrica and many of the uses are associated with theof infections, e.g. it is used widely for treatment ofdiseases and wound dressing (Table 1). The large mor-diversity of the genus is complemented by chemicalillustrated by the range of novel compounds isolatedenus. Despite the extensive past and present tradi-, the unrivalled botanical diversity, and the chemical, it remains ironic that explorations of the biologicalindigenous species are comparatively poorly studied.

is notoriously challenging from a taxonomic perspec-veral examples have been highlighted to emphasisence of correct botanical identication when embark-opharmacological and phytochemical studies. There

esting relationship between the morphological clas-nd the classes of chemical compounds isolated fromorphological group and there are certain classes of

, e.g. diterpenes, guaianolides, acylated phlorogluci-pyrone derivatives, for which one can predict in whichare most likely to occur. This may be important in the

ew plant-derived drugs, e.g. acylated phloroglucinolstial as anti-staphylococcal drug leads (Gibbons, 2004)ne derivatives have anti-HIV properties (McGlackenb, 2005; Appendino et al., 2007). It is clear thatis an interesting genus from an ethnobotanical, phy-and pharmacological perspective but that biological

rrelate the ethnobotany to the chemistry are often. To advance our knowledge on this fascinating genusiplinary approach involving botanists, chemists andacologists is required.

gements

ors thank Ms Mienkie Welman from the South Africandiversity Institute, Pretoria, for her help with enquiriesanges and taxonomy and the National Research Foun-th Africa) for the nancial support of this project.

., Meyer, J.J.M., 1997. The antimicrobial activity of 3,5,7-avone isolated from the shoots of Helichrysum aureonitens.Ethnopharmacology 57, 177181.., Ottino, M., Marquez, N., Bianchi, F., Giana, A., Ballero, M., Sterner,, B.L., Munoz, E., 2007. Arzanol, an anti-inammatory and anti-HIV-1nol -pyrone from Helichrysum italicum ssp. microphyllum. Journal ofoducts 70, 608612.

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Carini, Mion-rierson, D.S., Afolayan, A.J., 2007. Characterization of essential oilshrysum odoratissimum using different drying methods. Journal ofiences 7, 10051008.elmann, H., 1966. Wild Flowers of the Eastern Cape Province. Booksape Town, pp. 149160.obs, T.V., 1995. Traditional herbal medicine in Transkei. Journal ofmacology 48, 712.Abraham, W.-F., 1979a. Neue Diterpene und weitere Inhaltsstofferysum calliconum und Helichrysum heterolasium. Phytochemistry 18,

Abraham, W.-F., 1979b. Neue, chlorsubstituierte Thiophenacetylen-genmit ungewhnlicher Struktur ausHelichrysum-arten. Phytochem-9842.Abraham, W.-R., 1979c. Neue Diterpene aus Helichrysum acutatum.istry 18, 17541756.Abraham, W.-F., 1979d. Neue Prenylavanone aus Helichrysum

lum. Phytochemistry 18, 18511853.Abraham, W.-F., Sheldrick, W.S., 1980b. Weitere Diterpene mit

-gerst und andere Inhaltsstoffe aus Helichrysum chionosphaerum.istry 19, 869871.

Ates, N., 1984. Three prenylated avanoids from Helichrysum athrixi-ytochemistry 23, 13381339.Hartono, L., Jakupovic, J., 1985. A diterpene related to erythroxydiolhrysum reuxum. Phytochemistry 24, 611612., Hoffmann, E., 1979. Cannabigerol-hnliche Verbindungen ausm umbraculigerum. Phytochemistry 18, 13711374.nauf,W.,Misra, L.N., 1984a. Structures and synthesis of chlorophenol

s from Helichrysum species. Tetrahedron 40, 49874989.Mahanta, P.K., 1979. Weitere Phloroglucin-derivate aus Helichrysumum. Phytochemistry 18, 348350., Mahanta, P.K., Zdero, C., 1978b. Neue Chalkon-derivate ausischen Helichrysum-arten. Phytochemistry 17, 19351937.isra, L.N., 1984. New prenylavanones and chalcones from Helichry-

sum. Planta Medica 50, 271272.Misra, L.N., Jakupovic, J., 1984. Weitere Phloroglucin- und -Pyrone-s Helichrysum arten. Planta Medica 50, 174176.Suwita, A., 1978. Neue Phloroglucin-derivate aus Leontonyx-artentere Verbindungen aus verretern der Tribus Inuleae. Phytochemistry934.uwita,A., 1979.WeiterePhloroglucin-derivate ausHelichrysum-arten.istry 18, 20462049.

Suwita, A., 1979a. Ein neues Guajanolid und ein Secoguajanolid ausm splendidum. Phytochemistry 18, 885886.Zdero, C., 1973. ber ein neues Azulen aus Helichrysum bracteatumlld. Chemische Berichte 106, 13371340.Zdero, C., 1979a. Neue Phloroglucin-derivate aus Helichrysum natali-elichrysum bellum. Phytochemistry 18, 641644.Zdero, C., 1980. Neue Phloroglucin-derivate aus Helichrysum-arten.istry 19, 153155.

Zdero, C., 1980a. Neue Geranylphloroglucin-derivate aus HelichrysumPhytochemistry 19, 683684.dero, C., 1983. Flavanones from Helichrysum thapsus. Phytochemistry878.dero, C., Abraham,W.-R., Suwita, A., Grenz,M., 1980a.NeueDiterpeneihydrochalcon-derivate sowie weitere Inhaltsstoffe aus Helichrysum

tochemistry 19, 873879.Zdero, C., Hoffmann, E., Mahanta, P.K., Dorner, W., 1978a. Neueund Sesquiterpene aus Sdafrikanischen Helichrysum-arten. Phyto-17, 19171922.Zdero, C., Zeisberg, R., Sheldrick, W.S., 1979c. Helifulvanolsureeinrpen mit anomalem Kohlenstoffgerst aus Helichrysum fulvum. Phy-ry 18, 13591362.Zdero, C., Ziesche, J., 1979a. Neue Flavone und Phloroglucin-derivaterysum herbaceum und Helichrysum chrysargyrum. Phytochemistry 18,.Ziesche, J., 1979. Ein ungewhnliches Tetrahydrofuran-derivat ausm aureo-nitens. Phytochemistry 18, 664665.iesche, J.,Mahanta, P.K., 1979b.NeueChalkon-derivate undhumulon-erbindungen aus Helichrysum arten. Phytochemistry 18, 10331036.Meyer, J.J.M.

south african helichrysum species: a review of the traditional uses, biological activity and...

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