Phytochemistry, Pharmacology, and Conservation of Ansellia africana: A Vulnerable Medicinal Orchid of Africa

Abstract

Medicinal plants are natural reserves of various therapeutic biomolecules. Orchids occupy a significant position among these. Ansellia africana is one of the most important orchids used in various pharmacopeias worldwide, especially in Traditional African Pharmacopeia (TAP). South Africa, in particular, houses approximately 494 species of orchids with a 75% rate of endemism. A. africana is a wonder orchid having large reserves of prized biomolecules that provide remedies to chronic ailments such as Alzheimer’s disease. Apart from its pharmaceutical importance, the plant is of high importance in the horticultural industry, primarily because of its flowers. However, as with many orchid species, the wild populations of this fascinating orchid species are under severe threat. Presently A. africana has been categorized as “vulnerable” and mandates systematic as well as scientific approaches to conserve as well as sustainably utilize its economic potentials. Keeping into consideration the huge potentiality of A. africana as a medicinal herb, the present chapter documents all the major research aspects with a focused aim to provide holistic information about the pharmaco-horticultural importance of this prized orchid species of Africa.