Direct chemical analysis of great hairy willowherb extracts by mass spectrometry.

Abstract

Epilobium hirsutum L. (Onagraceae) are well-known medicinal plant traditionally used for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia, as well as kidney and urinary tract disorders (1). Plant has been possessed antiproliferative, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and analgesic activities. These biological effects are mainly attributed to polyphenolic constituents, particularly ellagitannins, flavonoids, and phenolic acids (2). Considering that the therapeutic activity of extracts depends on the metabolite profile, it is important to evaluate the composition of water extract.