EXPLORING THE ACHILLEA: PHYTOCHEMISTRY, ANTIMICROBIAL, ANTIOXIDANT AND PHYTOTHERAPEUTIC POTENTIAL TO THE MANAGEMENT OF GASTROINTESTINAL DISORDERS

Abstract

Achillea L. is a largest genus of vascular plants belonging in the family (compositae) comprising 130 species spread throughout the world. Species of Achillea L. used for medicinal properties such as wound healing, asthma and especially for the management of gastrointestinal disorders. A total 15 species of genus Achillea L. were recorded for the treatment of gastro-intestinal disorders. This data was collected from various review papers using different websites like Google scholar, pubmed, Scopus, science direct, web of science, research gate and tropicos.com. Genus Achillea L. is rich in bioactive compounds including phenolic acid, alkaloids, flavonoids and sesquiterpene lactones (SQLS). Sesquiterpene lactones (SQLs) are present in large quantities in Achillea species L. have been used as herbal remedies for GI disorders in different cultures. Achillea species demonstrates antimicrobial activity against E. Coli, Aspergillus and Bacillus Subtilis. Achillea species L. possessive antioxidant activity prevents oxidative damage to cells. Some species such as Achillea millefolium L. and Achillea wilhelmsii C. Koch exhibit have some toxicity such as anti-fertile effects in adult rats.It is concluded that Achillea species have high medicinal values especially for the treatment of gastro-intestinal disorders, antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. It is recommended that further research is needed on depth study of phytochemicals isolation, mechanisms of action and potential therapeutic uses in modern medicine of Achillea species.