Pharmacological properties and possible medicinal uses of Ageratum conyzoides L. (mentrasto ou erva-de-são-joão): an integrative review

Abstract

Ageratum conyzoides L. (Asteraceae), popularly known as mentrasto, erva-de-são-joão or goatweed, is an
invasive aromatic herb of tropical and subtropical regions, widely used in folk medicine for its anti-inflammatory,
analgesic, antipyretic, among others effects. Some of these effects have been proven by scientific studies and
provided information that justifies possible uses. Therefore, the present literature narrative review has sought
to survey scientific productions studying pharmacological activities and therapeutic potentials of Ageratum
conyzoides. Articles published in the last 32 years, from 1991 to 2023, were selected based on the descriptors:
Ageratum conyzoides/effects/pharmacological activity, and their translations into Portuguese, were selected
in the Scopus, SciELO and PubMed databases. The bibliographic survey reviewed 36 papers, with 33 papers
addressing pharmacological activities, two studies on toxicity and one paper addressing both sessions. Based on
a reading, we presented the types of extracts used, the pharmacological activities, the results and conclusions,
and indications of action mechanisms involved in the effect, in addition to the therapeutic potential. The article
analysis ratified some of the indications of popular use, but further studies are needed to explain how these
effects happen and to prove other uses in folk medicine.