General Introduction to Artemisia (Terpenoids):
- Artemisia contains sesquiterpene lactones, notably artemisinin, which is used in the treatment of malaria.
Synonyms:
- Common name: Wormwood
- Scientific name: Artemisia annua
- Synonyms: Qinghao (Chinese)
Biological Source:
- Derived from the aerial parts of Artemisia annua.
Family:
- Asteraceae
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Composition:
- Major terpenoids:
- Artemisinin: A sesquiterpene lactone.
- Other sesquiterpenes and monoterpenes.
Chemistry & Chemical Classes:
- Chemical Class: Sesquiterpene lactones.
- Structure:
- Artemisinin has a peroxide bridge essential for its antimalarial activity.
Therapeutic Uses of Artemisia (Terpenoids):
- Antimalarial: Used to treat Plasmodium falciparum malaria.
- Antioxidant and antimicrobial properties.
Commercial Applications:
- Used in artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACTs) for malaria treatment.
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