Some Indian bryophytes known for their biologically active compounds.

ABSTRACT

Bryophytes are known to produce a great range of biologically active compounds viz. terpenoids, aromatic compounds, and acetogenins. A lot of these constituents have typical odour, tanginess, and bitterness, and exhibit a fairly curious collection of bioactivities and medicinal properties. Chemical studies of the bryophytes were neglected for a long time in India. They are stockroom of naturally occurring materials. Many of these materials display substantial biological activity. Investigations are hindered commonly because of too little amounts of plant material. The resulting low yields of components are then generally insufficient to allow testing for biological activity. In vitro culture and suitable chemical synthesis on a preparative scale are now being undertaken to overcome this difficulty. In present review the bryophytes of Indian territory and their biologically active compounds have been highlighted which need to be used in sustainable manner.