Chemistry, biological activities and toxic effects of alkaloidal constituents of genus Delphinium - A mini review

Abstract

The genus Delphinium is one of the essential members of the family Ranunculaceae. These species grow wild in North America, Europe, and Asia. They have demonstrated antioxidant, antimicrobial, and cytotoxic activities. Diterpenoid alkaloids are their main constituents and seem to be responsible for medicinal and toxic properties. The primary purpose of this paper is to review the therapeutic benefits of Delphinium species, chemical composition, and its medicinal uses, in addition to the reported toxic effects of these plants influencing different animals and humans.

Keywords

• alkaloid
• delphinium
• phytochemistry
• biological activity
• toxic effects