An update on pharmacology of Satureja species; from antioxidant, antimicrobial, antidiabetes and anti-hyperlipidemic to reproductive stimulation

Abstract

Since ancient, the genus Satureja L. is well recognized for its therapeutic values. Only recently, scientists have been aware of its new medicinal aspects. In our last review, we evaluated esisting scientific data about this genus. Regarding ongoing reports and new multi-functional properties of this plant we were interested to update pharmacology of Satureja. Data was gathered using scientific books, journals, articles and websites including Pubmed, Scopus and Google Scholar up to 25th April 2010. Of initial search, 1540 records were reviewed for inclusion or exclusion in study, of which 71 publications were included. Different species of Satureja are famous for their analgesic, antiseptic, antimicrobial, antiviral, antioxidant, antiproliferative, antiprotozoal, antifungal, antidiarrheal, anti-inflammatory, anti-nociceptive, anticholinesterase and vasodilatory activities. The valuable therapeutic aspects of this genus are mostly correlated to the existence of essential oils, falvonoids and triterpenoids. The combination of two or more subspecies acting by different mechanisms to produce a synergistic effect should be considered. Based on the conducted assessments so far, antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, antioxidant, anti-diabetic, vasodilatory and analgesic activities are characterized as the most applicable properties of Satureja subspecies. Further studies are needed to confirm novel pharmacological aspects of this genus in both animal and human.