This review provides a comprehensive overview of the phytochemical composition and biological activity of Ranunculus species distributed in Kazakhstan, highlighting their pharmacological significance and research potential. Ranunculus is an important and widespread genus of the family Ranunculaceae Juss. The genus comprises approximately 600 species distributed worldwide. About 57 species exist in Kazakhstan, wherein more than 10 species are medicinal and distributed around the country. More than 85 bioactive compounds have been identified in Ranunculus, including flavonoids, flavonones, alkaloids, saponins, and other bioactive compounds. Several species of this genus have been widely used in traditional medicine for anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, anti-tuberculosis, antibacterial, and anti-malarial treatments. This review aims to summarize current knowledge on Ranunculus species, including their traditional uses and biochemical compounds, and recognize the biological activity of raw medicinal plants. The novelty of this study lies in summarizing, for the first time, all available data on Ranunculus species of Kazakhstan, including their phytochemistry, traditional uses, and biological properties, forming a foundation for further pharmacological and toxicological research.
Ranunculus L., species, biochemical composition, biological activities, ranunculin, traditional uses, protoanemonin
Genus Ranunculus extracts display diverse biological activities, including antibacterial, antiviral, antioxidant, hepatoprotective, and anti-inflammatory effects, with potential in treating tuberculosis and pharyngitis. However, limited clinical evidence and insufficient data on safety highlighted the urgent need for further pharmacological, toxicological, and pharmacokinetic studies.