Botany, traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology, processing, and applications of Cibotium barometz (L.) J. Sm.: A review.

Cibotium barometz (L.) J. Sm. (C. barometz), an ancient fern has a long history as a natural medicine in China, India, Vietnam, and other countries. In the traditional medical system, it is often used to treat bone pain, urinary system diseases, reproductive disorders, and so on. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive overview of current research on botany, traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology, processing, and applications of C. barometz. In addition, resource conservation, quality control, and perspectives for future research on C. barometz are also discussed. Recent phytochemical studies of C. barometz have shown that over 100 compounds have been isolated from the plant, including phenylpropanoids, polyphenols, flavonoids, terpenoids, steroids, polysaccharides, and other compounds. Modern pharmacological studies have also confirmed that C. barometz has anti-osteoporosis activity, anti-microorganism activity, anti-osteoarthritis activity, anti-cancer activity, hepatoprotective activity, protective activity on muscle, alleviating Alzheimer's disease, and so on. As an important means of preclinical application, the type and content of the components contained in C. barometz changed significantly before and after processing, and the strength of its pharmacological activity also changed. Furthermore, it has many applications in the fields of compound preparations and biomedicine, which have great development potential. Nevertheless, there are also some research gaps in C. barometz. This review appeals for more studies on C. barometz to better understand its pharmacological mechanism and active substance basis. Besides, more research on resource conservation and quality control is also necessary to ensure its sustainable use and development.