THE GENUS EPHEDRA: BIODIVERSITY, PHYTOCHEMISTRY AND PHARMACOLOGICAL POTENTIAL

This review article provides a comprehensive analysis of both domestic and international scientific studies on the phytochemical composition and biological activity of plants belonging to the Ephedra genus. Although Ephedra species have long been used in traditional medicine, their biologically active compounds and pharmacological effects have only recently begun to be systematically studied from a scientific standpoint. The article describes the major phytochemical constituents commonly found in Ephedra species, including alkaloids, flavonoids, phenolic compounds, and other secondary metabolites. A comparative analysis is conducted on the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, immunomodulatory, and other biological activities of these compounds. Additionally, the chemical composition of various Ephedra species is examined, highlighting both the similarities and differences among them. The authors emphasize the therapeutic potential of Ephedra species and explore their possible applications in the development of new pharmaceutical products. Overall, the article aims to establish a scientific foundation for future applied and clinical research based on the biologically active compounds of plants from the Ephedraceae family. Keywords: Ephedraceae, Ephedra species, biodiversity, chemical composition, pharmacological properties.