Document Type
Article
Abstract
Native and naturalized bioactive plants of the Canadian and American temperate biome are examined for their health and performance enhancement properties. Some of these plants are now being used as natural health products, and many have a long history as traditional foods and/or medicines with indigenous groups. This paper reviews the medicinal/cultural uses and bioactive properties of selected plant families: the Holly family (Aquifoliaceae) as stimulants, the Celery family (Apiaceae) as normoglycemic aids and analgesics, the Ginseng family (Araliaceae) as energy- boosting aids, the Sunflower family (Compositae) as anti-inflammatory aids, and the Legume family (Fabaceae) and Nightshade family (Solanaceae) as functional foods. These North American plants show promising avenues for innovative health and performance enhancement aids and it is concluded that they should be investigated further for their bioactive properties.
Disciplines
Natural Products Chemistry and Pharmacognosy | Nutrition | Plant Sciences
Recommended Citation
Ferreira M.P., Gendron F., McClure K. C., Kindscher K. (2012) "North American bioactive plants for human health and performance," Global Journal of Research on Medicinal Plants and Indigenous Medicine 1(11), 568-582, available at http://digitalcommons.wayne.edu/nfsfrp/1/
Included in
Natural Products Chemistry and Pharmacognosy Commons, Nutrition Commons, Plant Sciences Commons