Abstract:

The Rhodiola genus (Crassulaceae) is composed of about 90 species, mainly growing in high and cold regions. Some species are used as medicinal herbs to treat many diseases, such as cerebral hypoxia, cardiovascular disease, plateau response and so on. Up to now, about 180 constituents which are mainly glycosides, flavonoids, terpenoids, tannins, sterol and other compounds have been identified in the genus. The present review summarizes the chemical constituents isolated from the Rhodiola genus over the past few decades, with particular emphasis on Rhodiola crenulata (HK. f. et Thoms.) H. Ohba which is being studied by our research group.

Key words: Rhodiola genus, Chemical constituents, Rhodiola crenulata