Distribution areas and medicinal importance of the species of Cirsium Mill. found in Azerbaijan

Cirsium Mill. plant

Abstract

The article analyzes the geographical distribution areas, ecological characteristics and medicinal importance of the species of the genus Cirsium Mill. of the Asteraceae family, which are widespread in Azerbaijan. At the same time, the protection and effective use of species belonging to the genus are discussed. Problem: Cirsium Mill., one of the widespread medicinal plants in Azerbaijan, is considered an important component of biodiversity. These plants are mainly distributed in foothills, meadows, semi-deserts and roadside areas. Cirsium Mill. species are found especially in the Lesser Caucasus, Greater Caucasus, Talysh zone and lowland regions. In the high mountain belts of the area, it is found in rocky, stony, stony-gravel and gravelly vegetation. As a result of the location of Cirsium Mill. plant individuals at a certain distance from each other in rocky areas, sparse and poorly developed vegetation is formed. Studies show that Cirsium Mill. plants are rich in flavonoids, alkaloids, essential oils and antioxidant substances. In folk medicine, their roots, leaves, and seeds are used to treat liver, biliary tract, digestive system, and inflammatory diseases. Method: Field studies and comparative morphological analyses of several species, especially Cirsium tricholoma, Cirsium rhizocephalum and Cirsium frickii, were carried out in the mountainous regions of the Lesser and Greater Caucasus during the vegetation period. Herbarium materials and phytochemical analyses were also used to determine ecological and medicinal characteristics of the species. Result: The obtained results indicate that these species are ecologically adapted to subalp and alp meadow ecosystems and possess important pharmacological potential due to the presence of biologically active compounds such as flavonoids, alkaloids and phenolic substances. Conclusion: The study emphasizes the ecological role, medicinal value and necessity of protection and sustainable use of Cirsium Mill. species in Azerbaijan flora.