Pharmacognostic review on Kurdish plant Pterocephalus nestorianus

Abstract EN

The genus Pterocephalus, one of the most important genera of Caprifoliaceae family, comprises about 30 species which are usually found in sunny, dry, rocky crevices, mostly in Europe and Western Asia.

Nine species are native to the Kurdistan region of Iraq.

Pterocephalus nestorianus Nab.

is an important plant of this genera and locally known as Lawa.

It is widely used in folkloric medicines in Kurdistan for treating inflammation and oral diseases.

It is also widely used as ornamental plant and component of many herbal formulations, all around the world.

The aim of the present study is to collect authentic literature on classification, geographic distribution, eco-cultural health, traditional uses, phytochemistry, biological (environmental) activities and pharmacological properties of P.

nestorianus.