Geranium robertianum L. as a Source of Bioactive Compounds: From Pharmacognostic Characterization to Biological Relevance ^†

Geranium robertianum L. (Gr), commonly referred to as herb Robert, is a herbaceous plant belonging to the Geraniaceae family [1]. It has been traditionally used in European and Asian folk medicine for its astringent, anti-inflammatory, diuretic, and wound-healing properties [2]. This study presents a comprehensive pharmacognostic analysis derived from peer-reviewed scientific sources, aiming to consolidate existing knowledge and highlight the plant’s relevance in modern phytotherapy. The investigation includes a detailed overview of the macroscopic and microscopic features of the aerial parts, which are the most commonly used in medicinal preparations. Descriptive botanical elements such as leaf morphology, stem structure, and floral characteristics are compiled from authoritative pharmacognostic sources.

Phytochemical investigations cited in the literature indicate the presence of various bioactive compounds such as tannins, flavonoids (notably quercetin derivatives), essential oils, and phenolic acids [3]. These constituents are believed to contribute to the plant’s reported antimicrobial, antioxidant, anticancer, and mild analgesic activities [4]. While the traditional uses of Gr are well documented, scientific studies confirming these effects remain relatively limited, often based on in vitro and preliminary pharmacological studies. This review underscores the importance of standardized pharmacognostic evaluation as a prerequisite for the safe and effective use of medicinal plants. By compiling the fragmented data available in ethnobotanical records, phytochemical surveys, and pharmacological reports, this work contributes to the validation and systematization of Gr as a potential therapeutic agent. Furthermore, it highlights the need for more rigorous experimental studies to confirm and expand upon the plant’s traditionally ascribed medicinal roles.

In this context, future research directions will include the extraction and characterization of bioactive compounds of different types of Gr extracts through advanced techniques such as HPLC-MS and complementary LC-MS/MS, followed by antioxidant capacity assays, cytotoxicity tests (MTT/LDH) on cancerous and normal cells, and detailed assessments of cell migration and morphology. Antimicrobial activity will be evaluated using standard microbiological assays, while techniques such as Western blot, RT-PCR, and immunofluorescence will be employed to investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying the biological effects of Gr. The antiangiogenic potential of the extract will be assessed using the chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) assay. Collectively, these strategies aim to deliver a rigorous pharmacological evaluation of Gr and substantiate its medicinal relevance.