Korean and Siberian pine: Review of chemical composition and pharmacological profile

Background: Pinus sibirica and Pinus koraiensis are belonging to the same subsection Strobus, within the Pinaceae family. The most abundant classes of bioactive compounds isolated from them are terpenes, phenols and fatty acids. Different forms of the abovementioned plants have been used in folk medicine for the prevention and treatment of many diseases. Pinus sibirica has been used to cure rheumatism, arthritis as well as to treat infections, fungal diseases and wounds. It is also considered to exhibit a hypolipidemic, anti-allergic and antiseptic properties. Similarly, Pinus koraiensis is used tradidionaly to treat cough, infections, wounds and rheumatism. Furthermore, essential oil from Korean pine has antitumor, anti-ageing, and sedative effects. Objective: Our aim was to compile literature data regarding chemical composition and pharmacological effects of different preparations from Pinus sibirica and Pinus koraiensis plants, covering from pre-clinical data to upcoming clinical studies. Method: Articles were collected by searching databases: Medline/PubMed, SCOPUS, Embase, and Web of Science. There was no limitation for year of publication and search was not limited only on articles in English language. Results: Given the literature reports, both Siberian and Korean pines, rich in terpenes and phenols, are mainly used in investigations where they expressed antitumor, hepatoprotective or appetite suppressant properties. Conclusion: This review provided compilation of available data about chemical composition, biological profile and therapeutic usage of Pinus sibirica and Pinus koraiensis. Numerous ingredients found in those plants have great potential for examination of numerous pharmacological effects which can lead to production of innovative therapeutic agent.