Phytochemistry and pharmacology of Fagopyrum dibotrys (D. Don) H. Hara: A review

摘要

Fagopyrum dibotrys (D. Don) H. Hara, a widely used traditional Chinese herb, belongs to the family of Polygonaceae, and possesses a wide range of ethnomedicinal uses. In recent decades, a great number of chemical and pharmacological studies have been done on F. dibotrys. More than 80 compounds including flavonoids, organic acids, sterides, essential oil and amino acids, as well as vitamins have been found in the herb, with many of them being isolated for the first time from Fagopyrum Mill. Currently, the effective compounds or effective parts have been screened for the pharmacological activity of this herb to exhibit anti-tumor effect, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antibacterial and other activities. This review aims at providing a comprehensive work about the phytochemistry and pharmacological action of F. dibotrys. Future efforts should concentrate more on in vitro or in vivo studies and clinical trials in order to confirm traditional uses. Especially, the efficacy of F. dibotrys should be further researched in the treatment of anti-tumor and lung abscess.