Recent advances in phytochemistry, pharmaceutical, biomedical, phytoremediation, and bio-preservative applications of Lobularia maritima
Boutheina Ben Akacha, Monika Michalak, Walid Ben Romdhane, Miroslava Kačániová, Rania Ben Saad, Wissem Mnif, Wirginia Kukuła‐Koch, Stefanıa Garzoli, Anis Ben Hsouna
Abstract
Lobularia maritima (syn. Alyssum maritimum ), a member of the Brassicaceae family, is an annual and sometimes perennial plant growing in the Mediterranean regions of Europe. This halophyte is commonly found by the sea (in rocky and sandy locations), and it charms its viewers with abundant flowering from September to June. This review summarizes and discusses the recently published data on L. maritima , including various aspects of its biological properties and uses. In particular, its phytochemical composition and biological activities, including the results of clinical studies, are reviewed. Additionally, industrial applications of the plant in various sectors, such as cosmetics, foods or pharmaceuticals, have been evaluated and reported to underline the significance of the plant. Finally, its uses in phytoremediation and in the production of meat as a bio-preservative sustaining its functional and nutritional qualities are summarized. The above properties result from the inherent features of the plant that are due to environmental stress tolerance genes, secondary metabolites , antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory components.