Open AccessTherapeutic Potential of Wogonin: A Naturally Occurring Flavonoid
Author(s) -
Tai Man Chun,
Tsang Shui Ying,
Chang Lawrence Y. F.,
Xue Hong
Publication year - 2005
Publication title -
cns drug reviews
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 1527-3458
pISSN - 1080-563X
DOI - 10.1111/j.1527-3458.2005.tb00266.x
Subject(s) - wogonin , flavonoid , neuroscience , medicine , pharmacology , traditional medicine , chemistry , psychology , biochemistry , scutellaria baicalensis , alternative medicine , pathology , traditional chinese medicine , antioxidant
The search for flavonoids with novel therapeutic effects has been intense. Wogonin, as a naturally existing monoflavonoid, has been shown to have therapeutic potential in vitro and in vivo. Methods for its extraction from herbs and its chemical synthesis have been developed. Pharmacokinetic studies have shown a rapid tissue distribution and prolonged plasma elimination phase of wogonin. It has been shown experimentally that wogonin exerts anti‐oxidant activity, which may, in part, underlie its antiinflammatory, anti‐cancer, antiviral and neuroprotective actions. The recent discovery of its anxiolytic activity suggests a new mechanism of action, involving interaction with the benzodiazepine (BZD) binding site of the GABA A receptor and modulation of this receptor activity. Although the safety record of wogonin is remarkable and voluminous literature about its pharmacological effects is available, it has not been used in Western medicine in the form of a pure chemical. In this article we review its therapeutic effects, its sources and pharmacokinetic profile to highlight its therapeutic potential.