Ethnobotany, phytochemistry and biological activities of the genus Allium L.

The genus Allium , comprising over 1,100 species, is one of the largest groups of monocotyledonous plants distributed globally. Many Allium species, particularly Allium cepa (onion) and Allium sativum (garlic), have been traditionally utilized for both culinary and medicinal purposes due to their rich composition of bioactive compounds. Present review aims to summarize the ethnomedicinal uses, phytochemical constituents, and pharmacological properties of 14 selected Allium species based on existing literature.” Allium species are abundant in diverse secondary metabolites, including alkaloids, flavonoids, organosulfur compounds, saponins, and phenolics. These compounds contribute to a broad spectrum of biological activities such as antioxidant, antimicrobial, antifungal, antiviral, anticancer, anti-diabetic, and cardiovascular benefits. Both bulbs and aerial parts of these plants have demonstrated significant therapeutic properties in various traditional and experimental studies. The review underscores the pharmacological promise of selected Allium species based on their ethnobotanical relevance and phytochemical diversity. However, to validate traditional claims and ensure safe and effective therapeutic use, more rigorous pharmacological, clinical, and toxicological investigations are needed in the future.