Distribution, phytochemical constituents and biological activities of halophytic genus Suaeda

Halophytes are extremophiles that allow salinity and high drought levels in environments with extreme stress conditions. Suaeda, is a member of the Amaranthaceae family is commonly known seepweed and seablites halophytic genus, which under stress conditions, synthesize and accumulate bioactive compounds. Suaeda species are beneficial in several human disease’s ailments. The extensive analysis of the phytoconstituents of the Suaeda genus is not known. Hence, the presence study focuses on geographical distribution of Suaeda species, their secondary metabolites, and biological activities. More than 100 species of Suaeda are spreading worldwide out of which only 4 species are recorded in India. The whole plant and its part are used for medicinal purpose. Phytochemical examination of the Suaeda species, S. fruticosa, S. nudiflora, S. maritima, S. vermiculata, S. japonica etc. indicated the presence of bioactive constituents such as phenols, alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, terpenoids, and tannins. Due to their high phenolic content, they have significant oxidative stress-related antioxidant activity. The Suaeda genus reported to possess diverse pharmacological applications, including antidiabetic, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antihypertensive, hepatoprotective, anticholinesterase, and antitoxoplasmosis properties. It is also valuable as a traditional remedy for wound healing, ulcers, snake bites, liver and heart diseases, hepatitis, jaundice, skin problems, inflammation, and food for humans and animals.