Abstract

Cytisus scoparius, a widely used traditional Chinese herb, belongs to the family of Leguminosae, and is taken to nourish Yin and invigorate the heart & liver in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and has a very high medicinal value. In recent decades, a great number of chemical and pharmacological studies have been done on Cytisus scoparius. More than 70 compounds including quinolizidine alkaloids, alkenol, benzenoid, phenyl propanoid, flavonol, carotenoid, alicyclic compounds, alkanone, steroid, lipid and monoterpene, as well as other trace elements have been found in the herb. Studies show that Cytisus scoparius and its active principles possess wide pharmacological actions on the blood system, immune system, endocrine system, cardiovascular system and the nervous system. Currently, the effective compounds or active constituents have been screened for the pharmacological activity of Cytisus scoparius and the highest quality scientific data is delivered to support the further application and exploitation for new drug development.