Genus: Liparis–Luisia

Abstract

Liparis is one of the first orchids to be investigated for alkaloids, and many compounds have been isolated from Liparis and Malaxis which are related genera. All alkaloids from Liparis nervosa exhibit inhibitory activity against bacteria and fungi suggesting that there may be a basis for their usage to treat superficial infections. Pyrrolizidine alkaloids possess anti-oxidant activity. Nine Liparis species are used in China, with six being used as haemostatic. There is considerable interest in investigating Liparis for cytotoxic compounds. Nine species of Luisia are used in herbal medicine for varied ailments . Luisia species contain small amounts of alkaloids. Luisia brachystachys has been extensively investigated.