Medicinal action of black-jack extract (Bidens pilosa)

Abstract

Bidens pilosa is an annual plant in tropical regions, herbaceous with erect and quadrangular stem, size between 20 and 150 cm, branchy, glabrous, opposite and split leaves and radial flowers with modified calyx. In the scientific literature, it is known as Bidens pilosa L. (Asteraceae), as it has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antitumor activity. The objective of this work is to report the medicinal properties of Bidens pilosa extracts. During the research, several articles and publications were reviewed with an analytical approach, through comparative procedures, using techniques such as exams and the use of drugs, to evaluate their action on tumor cells and other diseases. The present review allowed us to conclude that the biological activity of Bidens pilosa, given its medicinal and phytotherapeutic properties, can bring new perspectives in the improvement and development of antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antineoplastic drugs.