Seca, A.M.L., Pinto, D.C.G.A. & Silva, A.M.S. (2015) The current status of bioactive betabolites from the genus Juniperus. Bioactive phytochemicals: perspectives for modern medicine (ed. by V. K. Gupta), 365-408. Daya Publishing House, New Dheli, Índia. ISBN:978-8170357797.
The genus Juniperus (family Cupressaceae) is one of the most numerous genera of the conifers (there are 102 accepted Latin binominal names). The plants are evergreen shrubs or trees, widely distributed throughout the northern hemisphere from the sea level to above timberline. Some Juniperus species are frequently used in medicinal purposes, for example Juniperus communis L. is used traditionally to cure tuberculosis while Juniperus oxycedrus L. is used in Turkey as a folk remedy in the treatment of diabetes. The richness of Juniperus species in essential oils and secondary metabolites type diterpenes, flavonoids and lignans contributes to its use in the folk medicine. Details on the most recent and relevant pharmacological studies on the bioactive secondary metabolites isolated from Juniperus species will be summarized and thoroughly discussed.
Ana Maria Loureiro da Seca Island Aquatic Ecology
