Honeybush (Cyclopia sp.) - a rich source of compounds with high antimutagenic properties.
The genus Cyclopia (Fabaceae family) includes a number of shrubs endemic to Cape Fynbos region of South Africa. The most common of these plants is Cyclopia intermedia E. Mey., used together with other Cyclopia species (mainly C. subternata and C. sessiliflora) to manufacture the honeybush herbal tea which has been produced in South Africa roughly since the beginning of the 19th century. Honeybush infusions are gaining popularity due to their characteristic honey-like flavour, low tannin content, absence of caffeine and potential health effects related to their antimutagenic and antioxidant properties. The presented review summarizes information concerning botany, chemistry, biological activity and application of Cyclopia plants.
Kokotkiewicz
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Department of Pharmacognosy, Medical University of Gdańsk, al. gen. J. Hallera 107, 80-416 Gdansk, Poland. adamkokot@amg.gda.pl
Luczkiewicz
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D016587:Antimutagenic Agents / Q000494:pharmacology*; D000975:Antioxidants / Q000494:pharmacology*; D001628:Beverages; D003374:Coumarins / Q000032:analysis; D053998:Cyclopia Plant / Q000737:chemistry*; D005419:Flavonoids / Q000032:analysis; D010936:Plant Extracts / Q000494:pharmacology*; D013019:South Africa; D044004:Xanthones / Q000032:analysis
D016587:Antimutagenic Agents; D000975:Antioxidants; D003374:Coumarins; D005419:Flavonoids; D010936:Plant Extracts; D044004:Xanthones; C009689:xanthone; C505898:coumestan