Phytochemical diversity, extraction techniques, and therapeutic potential of Erica species

Abstract

This review systematically examines the scientific literature on the genus Erica (heathers), with a focus on their phytochemical diversity and pharmacological potential. The objective is to critically analyze how extraction methods and species origin influence the profiles of bioactive compounds responsible for therapeutic effects. A comprehensive evaluation of phytochemical data is presented for widely studied species, including Erica arborea, Erica andevalensis, Erica australis, Erica manipuliflora, Erica cinerea, Erica verticillata, Erica carnea, Erica scoparia, Erica spiculifolia, Erica multiflora, and Erica mannii. Evidence indicates that extraction techniques and solvent polarity strongly affect the yield and diversity of secondary metabolites such as phenolic acids, flavonoids, and terpenoids, which are associated with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, diuretic, and anticancer activities. Importantly, this review highlights pronounced taxonomic and geographic sampling biases: most studies focus on European and Mediterranean Erica species, with very limited representation from Africa despite its exceptional species richness. These findings emphasize the need to optimize extraction protocols and expand research to underrepresented taxa. Overall, this synthesis underscores the therapeutic promise of Erica species and provides a foundation for future drug discovery efforts guided by phytochemical characterization and bioactivity screening.