Endemic species from Dinarides (W. Balkan) of interest for phytochemical investigations

At the beginning of 21^st century, like rarely before in history, need is felt for new medicines and for finding new ways in reaching them [1]. Most hopes are put in natural resources still rich in active principles contained in biodiversity of plants, mushrooms, even animals. However, plants are still under-researched, especially endemic and rare species, as well as plants that grow in unreachable places. Among biodiversity hot spots with plenty of endemic and potentially medical and eatable wild plants is the area of Dinarides (W. Balkan). The goal of this research is to identify potential medical endemic plants by using phylogenic – biochemical approach and congener relations among known medical plants that are widely spread and their tightly spread (endemic) related species.

This research analysed 250 endemic species distributed in Dinarides, which are highly interesting for reaching new active principles. Among plants that potentially contain alkaloids: 36 species were identified (genera: Senecio, Onosma, Moltkia, Halacsya, Astragalus, Campanula, Symphyandra, Euphorbia); for heterosides 52 species (genera: Plantago, Seseli, Gentiana, Rhamnus); for saponosides 45 species (genera: Silene, Verbascum, Scrophularia, Dianthus); for tannins 50 species (genera: Potentilla, Alchemilla, Sibirea); and for terpenoids 40 species (Kentranthus, Valeriana, Stachys, Satureja, Micromeria, Acinos, Alchillea). Most identified species represent extraordinary potentials in modern pharmacology, biotechnology and dietetic. Past researches of their closest relatives showed a wide spectrum of use in phytotherapy and dietetic [2]. Results of these researches are the basis for new approaches in basic and applied botanical, pharmacognosy and pharmacology researches [3].

References: 1. Redzic, S.S. (2007) Coll. Antropol. 31: 869–890.

2. Redzic SJ (2006) Ecol. Food & Nutr. 45: 189–232.

3. Redzic, S. (2007) Planta Med. 73: 1013.