A Review on Biochemical Constituents, Pharmacological and Medical Uses, and Nutritional Value of Six Different <i>Artemisia</i> Species in Saudi Arabia

In the current review, we obtained seven varieties of Artemisia that grow in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. They differ in growing conditions, area distribution, and chemical components, but they have some similar bioactive components, such as gallic acid. We found that the leaf extract of A. herba-alba and A. scoparia has a higher yield (26.7 mg g -1 GAE) of gallic acid, followed by A. sieberi (96.79 µg g -1 ), A. judaica (64.29 µg g -1 ), A. monosperma (22.144 µg g -1 ), and A. absinthium (0.38 µg g -1 ); several studies indicate that it reduces the symptoms of rheumatism. Artemisinin and quercetin (15.31 µg g -1 - 18.7 mg g -1 ) are used for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, and can inhibit autoimmune disorders. Most species have antioxidant activity. A. absinthium studies, in vitro and in vivo, have revealed free radical scavenging, anti-microbial, anti-cancer, and anti-inflammatory activities, and have medical and pharmaceutical uses. A. monosperma is used to treat parasitic worms, and A. sieberi is used to treat gangrenous ulcers and infectious ulcers. Artemisia species are allowed by the Saudi Food and Drug Authority in permitted quantities. A. monosperma’s acute toxicity is up to 6.1 g kg -1 . In this review, we will mention biochemical constituents, pharmacological and medical uses, and nutritional value of six different Artemisia species in Saudi Arabia. The seventh has been due to a lack of scientific research.