Work

Future perspective of Cicerbita alpina (L.) Wallr. (Asteraceae): Review on its phytochemistry and biological potential

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Cicerbita alpina (L.) Wallr. (Asteraceae), alpine sow-thistle, is a perennial alpine herb distributed throughout European mountain regions. Traditionally used as an edible wild or cultivated vegetable, the species has attracted scientific attention due to its recently established promising biological and pharmacological potential. The systematic survey on the phytochemistry and bioactivity of the species was completed via PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus (1990–2025). C. alpina remains underestimated compared to related taxa within the Cichorieae tribe. Comprehensive phytochemical studies reveal the presence of guaianolide-type sesquiterpene lactones, acylquinic and acyltartaric acids, and flavonoids. The profiling is related to its antioxidant, enzyme inhibitory, and antidiabetic activities, highlighting its pharmacological significance. Moreover, the species exhibits antiparasitic and anti-methanogenic effects. This review summarizes current data on C. alpina secondary metabolites and bioactivity, emphasizing it as a potential α-glucosidase inhibitor that alleviates oxidative stress markers and carbohydrate metabolism parameters. It could also be applied in nutraceutical and veterinary practice.

Source: Pharmacia

DOI: 10.3897/pharmacia.73.e180308

Authors: Vessela Balabanova, Reneta Gevrenova, Dimitrina Zheleva-Dimitrova

Institution: Medical University of Sofia

Language: English

Topic: Sesquiterpenes and Asteraceae Studies

Subfield: Cancer Research

Field: Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

Domain: Life Sciences

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $107

Funder: European Commission