An approach to the genus Tanacetum L. (Compositae): Phytochemical and pharmacological review

In view of the importance in folk medicine of some species of Tanacetum L. (Compositae), e.g. T. parthenium , this paper reviews reports of the past two decades on their phytochemistry and pharmacological actions. The facets of phytochemical composition to be reviewed concern mainly the compounds with a chemosystematic interest in the tribe: terpenoids, especially sesquiterpenes and sesquiterpene lactones and flavonoids. The pharmacological activities which make it possible to corroborate their use as a herbal remedy have also been reviewed.