Asian Journal
Of Traditional Medicines

Abstract: Objective: Some species of the genera Sanguisorba are commonly used as traditional drugs or folk remedies in China. The
present review is an attempt to highlight the recent research progress on the chemical constituents and pharmacological
effects of Sanguisorba genus. Methods: As the basis of the related references since 1982 to 2014, the chemical constituents and
pharmacological effects of these medicinal plants were summarized. Results: Some of components, such as terpenoid and
saponins, and tannins might be used as marker components for the Sanguisorba genus, and the pharmacological activities are
mainly including hemostatic, skin whitening, anti-inflammation, anti-viral, anti-oxidation, anti-tumor, preventing the toxic
caused by renal failure and cardiovascular diseases. Conclusions: This paper summarizes the progress on the chemical characters
and pharmacological effects of Sanguisorba genus to provide a basis for more in-depth and comprehensive studies about
Sanguisorba genus.

Key words: Sanguisorba genus, Rosaceae, chemical constituents, pharmacological effects