Exploring the phytochemistry and biological potential of T. minuta (L.): A comprehensive review

With a rich historical background, Tagetes minuta (L.) (T. minuta) belonging to the family Asteraceae has been traditionally employed to treat numerous ailments. Notably, its essential oil finds application in agrochemicals, perfumery and cosmetic industries. This review aims to provide up-to-date information on its phytochemical constituents and various pharmacological activities along with relevant published patents of this plant. This valuable data will be beneficial for researchers, as well as professionals in agrochemical, pharmaceutical, and cosmetics industries seeking up-to-date insights. The literature available on this plant was thoroughly analysed to extract information regarding its phytochemical composition, including essential oils, flavonoids, terpenoids, thiophenes, sterols and phenolics. Moreover, the pharmacological activities of T. minuta were critically examined encompassing antimicrobial, antiviral, antioxidant, antidiabetic, anticancer, antidepressant and insecticidal properties among others. Overall, this comprehensive and systematic review consolidates the existing knowledge on the phytochemistry and the pharmacological activities of T. minuta that underscore its immense potential as a valuable source of natural compounds with diverse therapeutic properties. Additional investigations are necessary to uncover the underlying mechanisms of its actions and conduct clinical trials to verify its effectiveness and safety in humans. This review provides valuable insight for researchers, pharmacologists, and herbal medicine practitioners, supporting evidence-based utilization of T. minuta in the field of medicine, pharmaceuticals, and natural product discovery. (c) 2024 SAAB. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.