Bryophytes
are the second largest heterogeneous group of terrestrial plants. The
bryophytes placed taxonomically between Algae and Pteridophytes, are further
divided into three classes; Hornworts (class Anthocerotae), Liverworts (class
Hepaticae) and Mosses (class Musci). They are the most captivating exotic
species on earth with distinguishing characteristics.
Bryophytes
are rich in a variety of secondary biological active compounds. Bryophytes
contain potentially useful natural products, including polysaccharides
terpenoids, lipids, amino acids and phenylpropanoids. Bryophyte isolated
compounds and extracts have cytotoxic, antimicrobial, insecticidal, antiviral,
nematocidal effects on smooth and non-striated muscles, weight loss, plant
growth regulation and allelopathic activities.
In the present review, the
therapeutic uses of bryophytes were focused in detail. This will highlight
bryophytes as potential source for phytotherapeutic remedies and chemical
products used in different fields of chemistry, pharmacology, bioiogy and different
branches of life sciences.
Primary Language | English |
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Subjects | Structural Biology |
Journal Section | Articles |
Authors | |
Publication Date | January 31, 2018 |
Published in Issue | Year 2018 Volume: 2 Issue: 1 |