An Up-to-Date Review Regarding the Biological Activity of Geranium robertianum L

Abstract

In this modern era, in which interest in natural compounds is gaining more ground, Geranium robertianum L. (Gr), a species with long use in traditional medicine, stands out for its promising potential in managing a multitude of health issues. In this context, the present review aims to explore the main phytocompounds detected in various types of extracts, as well as the biological activity of Gr species. This review was conducted by analyzing data published up to February 2025 from peer-reviewed journals and databases including PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, using key words combinations such as Geranium robertianum L. and the searched phytocompound and biological effect. According to the literature the main phytochemical classes identified in different types of extracts include tannins, flavonoids, phenolic acids, and essential oils. The most important biological actions described in the literature are antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antiulcerative, neuroprotective, anti-cancer, and antidiabetic effects. However, knowledge about Gr is still relatively limited, requiring more detailed study regarding its pharmacological proprieties and the molecular mechanisms behind them.

Keywords: anti-cancer; anti-inflammatory; antidiabetic; antimicrobial; antioxidant; antiulcerative; antiviral; neuroprotective; phytochemical composition; taxonomy; wound healing.

Figure 1

Chemical structures of the main phytocompounds of Geranium robertianum L. The figure was created using KingDraw V.3.6.1.

Figure 2

Chemical structures of the main terpenes present in the essential oils of Geranium robertianum L. The figure was created using KingDraw V.3.6.1.

Figure 3

Molecular mechanisms of principal therapeutic action of Geranium robertianum L. extracts. (↑: increase, ↓: decrease). The figure was created using BioRender.com.