Total alkaloids from the rhizomes of Ligusticum striatum: a review of chemical analysis and pharmacological activities

Abstract

Rhizome Chuanxiong (RCX), the dried rhizomes of Ligusticum striatum DC., is a geoauthentic TCM herb distributed in Sichuan province of China that possesses efficacy in promoting blood circulation, removing blood stasis and alleviating pain. Rhizome Chuanxiong total alkaloids (RCXTAs) are one of the major characteristic constituents of RCX with the effects of antimigraine, neuroprotective, cardioprotective and other cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. Over the past years, rapid development of technology has advanced some aspects of RCXTAs. The aim of this review is to illustrate the recent advances in the chemical analysis and biological activities of RCXTAs, and to highlight new challenges.

Graphical Abstract

Keywords:

• Ligusticum striatum
• Total alkaloids
• Chemical analysis
• Pharmacological activities

Disclosure statement

None of the authors declare any conflict of interests in this study.

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by the Development and Regeneration Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Chengdu Medical College [grant number No.SYS19-08], the Scientific Research Fund of Chengdu Medical College [grant number No. CYZ18-18], and the Scientific Research Fund of Department of Laboratory Medicine, Chengdu Medical College [grant number No. JYZK201802].