PHYTOCHEMISTRY (MILK THISTLE, MOMORDICA, SAFFLOWER)

Abstract

Phytotherapy occupies an important place in modern pharmacology due to the high biological activity of natural compounds and the relatively low risk of side effects. This paper examines the pharmacological properties of medicinal plants such as milk thistle (Silybum marianum), momordica (Momordica charantia), and safflower (Carthamus tinctorius), which are widely used in both traditional and evidence-based medicine.

The aim of the study is to analyze the biologically active substances of these plants and their pharmacodynamic effects based on data from modern scientific literature. The study employs methods of systematic analysis and synthesis of data from authoritative sources in pharmacology and phytochemistry.

The results showed that milk thistle contains silymarin, which has pronounced hepatoprotective and antioxidant effects; momordica is characterized by a hypoglycemic effect due to the presence of charantin and polypeptide-P; safflower exhibits anti-inflammatory, anticoagulant, and cardioprotective properties due to the presence of flavonoids and fatty acids.

The mechanisms of action of these plants are associated with the regulation of redox processes, as well as their influence on enzyme systems and metabolism.

Thus, the studied herbal preparations have significant therapeutic potential and can be used in the комплексной therapy of liver, endocrine, and cardiovascular diseases. The obtained data confirm the need for further clinical studies to expand the evidence base for their application.