Eleutherococcus giraldii (Harms) Nakai: a review of botany, traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology and quality control

Abstract

Eleutherococcus giraldii (Harms) Nakai (EG, thereafter) is a perennial shrub, widely recognized for its medicinal properties. The stem bark of this plant is a widely used traditional Chinese herb with the effects of dispelling dampness, strengthening sinews and invigorating bones. Native to the upper reaches of the Minjiang River, EG is a prevalent Qiang medicine. It was included in the 2010 Edition of the Standard of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Sichuan Province. In the 1990s, numerous phytochemistry was carried out. Several chemical constituents have been identified, including saponins, lignans, alkali nucleosides, polysaccharides, alkanes, organic acids, and other compounds. Notably, glycosides and their glycosides with ivy saponins as ligands stand out among these constituents. Modern pharmacological studies have shown that the stem bark of Eleutherococcus giraldii (Harms) Nakai (EGSB, thereafter) has anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, anti-tumour, anti-oxidant, anti-ischemic and hepatoprotective effects. In addition to its stem bark being used in medicine, the young leaves of EG are the traditional food of the Qiang people, which has been developed into a tea product and pushed to the market. The prospect of industrialisation is good. This comprehensive review aims to explore the taxonomic status, botanical characteristics, traditional applications, phytochemistry, pharmacology, and quality control of EG. The primary focus is placed on phytochemical and pharmacological investigations.

Graphical abstract