The traditional and modern uses of Selaginella tamariscina (P.Beauv.) Spring, in medicine and cosmetic: Applications and bioactive ingredients

Ethnopharmacological relevance: Extracts of the plant Selaginella tamariscina (P.Beauv.) Spring (spike moss) are used for a long time in Asia, for the treatment of multiple diseases and conditions. Aqueous and alcoholic leave extracts are used by local communities. In China, the plant (Juan bai) is listed on the Pharmacopoeia. In South Korea, the use of this plant (Kwon Baek) is mentioned in the book Dongui-Bogam (Heo Jun 1613), at the origin of the Hyungsang medicine. S. tamariscina is traditionally used in Vietnam (mong lung rong), Thailand (dok hin), Philippines (pakong-tulog) and other Asian countries. Aim of the study: To provide an analysis of the multiple traditional and current uses of S. tamariscina extracts (STE) in the field of medicine and cosmetic. The review is also intended at identifying the main natural products at the origin of the many pharmacological properties reported with these extracts (anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antidiabetic, antibacterial, antiallergic, anticancer effects). Methods: Extensive database retrieval, such as SciFinder and PubMed, was performed by using keywords like " Selaginella tamariscina", "spike moss", "Selaginellaceae ". Relevant textbooks, patents, reviews, and digital documents were consulted to collate all available scientific literature and to provide a complete science-based survey of the topic. Results: Different solvents and methods are used to prepare STE. The process can largely modify the natural product content and properties of the extracts. STE display a range of pharmacological effects, useful to treat metabolic disorders, several inflammatory diseases and various cancers. A specific carbonized extract (S. tamariscina carbonisatus) has shown hemostatic effects, whereas standard STE can promote blood circulation. Many patented STE-containing cosmetic preparations are reviewed here. Several biflavonoids (chiefly amentoflavone) and phenolic compounds (selaginellin derivatives) are primarily responsible for the observed pharmacological properties. Potent inhibitors of protein tyrosine phosphatase 1 B (PTP1B), phosphodiesterase-4 (PDE4), and repressor of pro-inflammatory cytokines expression have been identified from STE. Conclusion: The traditional use of STE supports the research performed with this plant. There are robust experimental data, based on in vitro and in vivo models, documenting the use of STE to treat type 2 diabetes, several inflammatory diseases, and some cancers (in combination with standard chemotherapy). Selaginella tamariscina (P.Beauv.) is a prime reservoir for amentoflavone, and many other bioactive natural products. The interest of the plant in medicine and cosmetic is amply justified.