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BOLETÍN LATINOAMERICANO Y DEL CARIBE
DE PLANTAS MEDICINALES Y AROMÁTICAS
18 (3): 239 - 264 (2019)
© / ISSN 0717 7917 / www.blacpma.usach.cl
Revisión | Review
239
The Tillandsia genus: history, uses, chemistry, and biological activity
[El género Tillandsia: historia, usos, química y actividad biológica]
Edgar Estrella-Parra1,2, María Flores-Cruz3,4, Gerardo Blancas-Flores1,
Stephen D. Koch4 & Francisco J. Alarcón-Aguilar1
1Laboratorio de Farmacología, Departamento Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana, Unidad Iztapalapa. Ciudad de
México, México
2Laboratorio de Fitoquímica, UBIPRO, FES-Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Estado de México, México
3Centro para la Sustentabilidad Incalli Ixcahuicopa ‘Centli’, Programa de Investigación Sierra Nevada, México
4Colegio de Postgraduados, Campus Montecillo, Texcoco, Posgrado en Botánica, Estado de México, México
Contactos | Contacts: Francisco J. ALARCÓN-AGUILAR - E-mail address: aaaf@xanum.uam.mx
Abstract: Tillandsia L. genus comprises 649 species, with different uses at different times. T. usneoides L. uses are reported since the late-
archaic and pre-Columbian cultures. In XIX-XX centuries, T. usneoides was used in some manufactured products, as polish and packing
fruit. Tillandsia has a favorable reputation as medicine: for leucorrhea, rheumatism, ulcers, hemorrhoid treatment, as an anti-diabetic
remedy, emetic, analgesic, purgative, contraceptive, antispasmodic and diuretic. Tillandsia chemical composition includes cycloartane
triterpenes and hydroxy-flavonoids, which are present in at least 24 species. Several extracts and compounds from Tillandsia spp. have been
reported with pharmacological actions, as anti-neoplasia, hypolipidemic, antifungal, anti-HSV-1, hypoglycemic and microbicide. This
review communicates the economic importance, ethnobotany, chemistry composition and biological activities of the Tillandsia genus, and
analyze its biological and economic perspective. Tillandsia genus has cultural, economic and pharmacological relevance, with a high
potential in many essential aspects of the modern society.
Keywords: Tillandsia spp; Bromeliaceae; Cycloartane triterpenes; Ethnobotany; Medicinal plants; Phytopharmacology.
Resumen: El género Tillandsia L. comprende 649 especies, con diferentes usos en diferentes épocas. T. usneoides L. se han reportado desde
el arcáico tardío hasta las culturas precolombinas. En los siglos XIX-XX, T. usneoides se usó en productos manufacturados: como abrasivo
y embalaje de fruta. Como medicina tradicional, el género Tillandsia se reporta para leucorrea, reumatismo, úlceras, hemorroides, remedio
antidiabético, emético, analgésico, purgante, anticonceptivo, antiespasmódico y diurético. Su composición química incluye triterpenos de
tipo ciclo-artano e hidroxi-flavonoides, presentes en al menos 24 especies. Los extractos y compuestos del género Tillandsia se han
reportado con propiedades antineoplásicas, hipolipidémicas, antifúngicas, anti-HSV-1, hipoglucemiantes y microbicidas. Esta revisión
comunica la importancia económica, etnobotánica, composición química y las actividades biológicas del género Tillandsia, y analiza su
perspectiva biológica y potencial económica. Tillandsia tiene importancia cultural, económica y farmacológica, con gran potencial en
muchos aspectos esenciales de la sociedad moderna.
Palabras clave: Tillandsia spp; Bromeliaceae; Triterpenos cicloartano; Etnobotánica; Plantas medicinales; Fitofarmacología.
Recibido | Received: January 24, 2019
Aceptado | Accepted: March 2, 2019
Aceptado en versión corregida | Accepted in revised form: April 22, 2019.
Publicado en línea | Published online: May 30, 2019
Este artículo puede ser citado como / This article must be cited as: E Estrella-Parra, M Flores-Cruz, G Blancas-Flores, SD Koch, FJ Alarcón-Aguilar. 2019 The Tillandsia
genus: history, uses, chemistry, and biological activity. Bol Latinoam Caribe Plant Med Aromat 18 (3): 239 – 264.
Estrella-Parra et al.
Chemistry and biological activity of the Tillandsia L. genus
Boletin Latinoamericano y del Caribe de Plantas Medicinales y Aromáticas/240
INTRODUCTION
Bromeliaceae family includes 57 genera and 3,350
species (Luther, 2006). They are distributed
predominantly in the Neotropical region, from
southern Mexico through Chile and reaching the
North-American Southeast (Manetti et al., 2009).
Except for Pitcairnia feliciana (A. Chev.) Harms &
Mildbraed, Bromeliaceae is considered an endemic
family of the Americas (Givnish et al., 2007) that
comprises eight subfamilies: Pitcairnioideae,
Tillandsioideae, Bromelioideae, Puyoideae,
Navioideae, Hechtioideae, Lindmanioideae, and
Brocchinioideae. They differ for: growth habit,
trichrome, type of fruit, seed, leaflet, photosynthesis,
and pollinator; as well as its epiphytes, growth, and the
chlorenchyma (Crayn et al., 2004; Givnish et al.,
2007; Vasconcelos et al., 2013; Givnish et al., 2014).
Tillandsia genus has over 649 species and
includes members with distinctive morphological and
physiological characteristics (Pickens et al., 2006;
Gouda et al., 2016; Granados et al., 2016). Most of the
species of the genus are epiphytes of trees or live on
rocky slopes, preferring to settle in Quercus spp. tree
branches, because of its rough bark. They possess
leaves covered with peltate trichomes and are arranged
in rosettes; whereas the inflorescences are bracteates
with bright colors (Diego-Escobar et al., 2013). All
Tillandsia species are epiphytes, living independently
of the soil, on trees or inert substrates, such as electric
power-line wires (Brighigna et al., 1997). In these
species, the lack of an absorbing root system is
substituted by a specialized structure named trichrome
that is essential for water uptake and other nutrients
(Papini et al., 2011). It is known that around 27.614
species are vascular epiphytes, with 913 genera in 73
families (Zots, 2013), representing approximately 13%
of the species of vascular plants (Kress, 1986; Douglas
et al., 1987).
Tillandsia genus is the most primitive and
xerophyte of all Bromeliaceae family (Garth, 1964).
Carl Linnaeus called to the genus ‘Tillandsia’ in honor
of his Finnish teacher Elias Tillands (Vasconcelos et
al., 2013). From the beginning of the formal
investigation of the Tillandsia genus, it has awakened
much interest. Authors like Dubois (1917) mentioned
the extreme adaptability of T. usneoides in their host
as ‘carnivorous plant.' Also, Billings (1904) reported
the great versatility of T. usneoides, which during the
dry spell in the spring of 1902, was exposed to a
period during without rain during two months without
suffer injury. Nowadays, Tillandsia species has been
reported with qualities for pollutants environmental
monitoring (Capannesi et al., 1987; Figueiredo et al.,
2004; Elias et al., 2006; Cardoso-Gustavson et al.,
2016).
Although, Tillandsia genus species possesses
cultural relevance, economic importance, and unique
ecological features, also is used in traditional
medicine, with repercussions in the treatment of
human illness. In the present review, we report the
historical uses, customs, chemistry, economic
importance as well as biological activities of
Tillandsia genus species, empathizing the most
relevant since the point of view ethnomedicinal and
analyzing its biological and economic perspective.
Culture importance, uses, and customs in the
Americas
There are different applications of the Tillandsia
species reported in the Americas. Two of the plants
more reported are T. usneoides and T. recurvata,
commonly called ‘Spanish moss' and ‘Ball moss,'
respectively. The first hint of the use of Tillandsia
happened by T. usneoides fibers, which were found in
the pottery-making societies of North America before
our era (Smith & Trinkley, 2006; Gilmore, 2015). The
interest in Tillandsia plants was confirmed in the 19th
and 20th centuries.
One of the first uses of T. usneoides was
proposed throughout a patent for treatment and cure of
the decomposition of the bark of the trees (Cummings,
1880). In the early 20th century in Louisiana, Florida
USA, T. usneoides was used in the winter by farmers
when the pastures were scarce, whose often chop
downed trees and allow the cattle to feed on the moss
(Halligan, 1909). T. recurvata was used with the same
purpose in Brazil (Vasconcelos et al., 2013). In this
same century, T. usneoides was suggested as a product
very versatile in USA (Schorger, 1927), as for tanning
hides (Hall & Tuttle, 1918), and as a possible source
for a hard-natural wax and for processing of
upholstering fibers (Feurt & Fox, 1953a; Feurt & Fox,
1955). Besides, the waste material from the processing
of threads for the upholstery industry was suggested as
a source of estrogens for cattle, to improve meat
quality and the efficiency of feed utilization (Feurt &
Fox, 1953b). T. usneoides was also used to eliminate
the bitter taste of citrus for use in animal feed
(Sokoloff & Redd, 1951).
Interestingly, the cultural importance of the
Tillandsia plants is prominently most wide in the
different Latin America countries that in other parts of
Estrella-Parra et al.
Chemistry and biological activity of the Tillandsia L. genus
Boletin Latinoamericano y del Caribe de Plantas Medicinales y Aromáticas/241
the Americas. Avila (2012) reports that Tillandsia spp.
was probably known as ‘chicōm-ācatl’ in pre-
Columbian cultures, which was used in Aztec temples
as decoration (Pierce, 2000). Other Tillandsia species,
like T. purpurea Ruiz and Pav. are depicted on pre-
Incan Mochica pottery of northern Peru, often within a
magical context (Arslanian et al., 1986). Also, in Peru,
T. usneoides was used to wrapping fruit and fragile
objects, as well as filling pillows and mattresses
(Pierce, 2000).
Tillandsia species can propagate and live in
trees of economic importance as cacao and shrubs as
well as in power-line poles. Due to that Tillandsia
species grow in other plants with more significant
commercial o social value, they were considered
parasitic plants (Rodriguez, 1955), and some
herbicides against T. recurvata and T. usneoides were
proposed (Rodriguez, 1955; Cole, 1959; Cardenas,
1971; Johnson & Halliwell, 1973). Fortunately, this
practice has disappeared in some regions thanks to a
better knowledge of the cultural, ecological and
economic importance of the Tillandsia genus.
Ethnobotany
While in the USA the plants of Tillandsia genus were
used practically in everyday needs, in Latin America
the past knowledge of this genus affected on the
culture of these countries, particularly in its traditional
medicine. For instance, in Peru were reported several
Tillandsia spp. with magical connotations, and some
species are used in rituals as adornment, especially: T.
usneoides (salvagina), T. walterivar (Sara-Sara), T.
cauligera (huiccontoi) and T. walteri (pasto verde)
(Arslanian et al., 1986).
In México, T. usneoides had an essential use
in Azteca society and posteriorly in post-Colombian
time like decoration in scenes of nativity in Chiapas
(Gardner, 1982), as well as T. religiosa in Morelos
(Hernández-Cardenas et al., 2014). In Tarahumara
community, T. mooreana L.B.Sm., usually named
‘waráruwi’ together with the ‘peyote’ (Lophophora
williamsii), are important plants used in its rituals
(Bye, 1979). Recently, the Otomi community of San
Bartolo Tutoltepec, Puebla, use this resource as part of
their wardrobe flying in the ‘Danza de Los viejos,' this
to show himself as one of the old of vegetation, in an
ancient dance in the community (Stresser-Peann,
2011). Today, these plants can purchase in markets
mainly for ornamental purposes (Monteiro et al.,
2011).
Economic importance
The Bromeliaceae family is of horticultural interest,
mostly due to their growth forms and brightly colorful
inflorescences (Vervaeke et al., 2004). Today, from
Belgium and Holland millions of Bromeliaceae
seedlings and tens of thousands of finished plants are
imported into the USA (Cathcart, 1995). Only in
Florida, the commercial crop of Bromeliaceae has
been estimated at $20 million per year (Cathcart,
1995). However, some Tillandsia plants are
endangered (CITES) (Bessler, 1997) and it has been
sought techniques for its improvement and care. In
Brazil has been improved the conditions of growth
Tillandsia in the greenhouses due to the presence of
the mosquito Aedes aegypti, which is vectorized by
crows (Soares, 2005).
The plants of Tillandsia genus have received
hormonal treatment with 6-benzylaminopurine (6-BA)
as well as gibberellic acid, to accelerate the
multiplication and propagation velocity of the growth
(Chekanova, 1980; Bessler, 1997; Ding et al., 2009;
Ding et al., 2014). Also, it has been developed a
medium of culture to accelerate the propagation of the
plant (Zheng et al., 2013), including a specific method
with a particular medium of culture for Tillandsia, as
well as many fertilizers suitable for its growth
(Wrinkle, 1973; Sanchez, 2007; Ding et al., 2013;
Wang et al., 2013; Wang et al., 2014; Zheng et al.,
2015a; Zheng et al., 2015b; Wang, 2015; Zheng &
Ding, 2015; Ding et al., 2015a; Li and Zheng, 2015;
Zhang, 2016).
T. cyanea Linden ex K. Koch is used as
organic fertilizer in many Asiatic countries (Zhang,
2016). Also, T. usneoides is used as a decorative
arrangement in buildings (Wickham, 2013), as
ornamental plants in vertical type support, as air
purification indoors (Kim, 2011a; Kim, 2011b) as well
as green plant curtain (Yu et al., 2009). Interestingly, a
portable container accessory for clothing
transportation of Tillandsia plants has developed
(Sadaki, 2006). Also, with plants of Tillandsia have
been made ‘live pictures’ and jewelry for women
(Blió, 2013).
The speciation also has been of commercial
interest for the genus, and it has been developed
hybrids to commercialize them (Skotak, 2016), and
new cultivars of Tillandsia ornamental plants with
economic importance developed. Some varieties
known are: ‘Mora’ of T. leiboldiana Schltdl. (Bak &
Steur, 2011), ‘Jose’ from T. cyanea (Van der Velden,
2009) and ‘Tilstsil’ from T. stricta Sol. Ex Sims
Estrella-Parra et al.
Chemistry and biological activity of the Tillandsia L. genus
Boletin Latinoamericano y del Caribe de Plantas Medicinales y Aromáticas/242
(Osada, 2004). This activity satisfied the use of
technology for promoting the growth of the plants
(Ding et al., 2015b; Zheng et al., 2015b), which
reflexing the interest for improving and developing
crop in this genus.
Tillandsia genus possesses importance also in
the cosmetic industry. Aerial part extracts of T.
usneoides, T. cyanea, T. tectorum, T. ionantha, and T.
stricta improve rough skin and keeping moisture
(Ohara & Hori, 2001; Shoji et al., 2003; Kurokawa et
al., 2004; Yokozeki, 2010). Moreover, from T.
usneoides has been developed an anti-aging cosmetic,
which promotes the keratinocyte differentiation in the
skin (Kwon et al., 2013; Jung et al., 2015). All this
denote the commercial interest associated with
Tillandsia plants, whose potential real in this area
should be explored in further studies.
Medical traditional use of Tillandsia
In traditional medicine people mainly recommends the
use of aerial parts (leaves and stems), only leaves or
the complete plant to prepare remedies for many
ailments. Also, it has been reported the use of
inflorescences and roots, including preparations from
fresh plants. In South Louisiana, USA, people use the
decoction of T. usneoides in diabetes mellitus control
(Keller et al., 1981) and for hemorrhoid treatment
(Agra et al., 2008). In Latin America, T. recurvata is
usual for leucorrhea (Adonizio et al., 2006),
rheumatism, ulcers, hemorrhoids, eye infections,
gallbladder, and as antispasmodic agent (Paz et al.,
1995; Agra et al., 2007; Agra et al., 2008;
Vasconcelos et al., 2013). T. recurvata is used in
Bolivia for kidney inflammation (Bourdy et al., 2004).
Meanwhile, T. streptocarpa Baker as purgative and
laxative (Agra et al., 2008), emetic, analgesic and anti-
inflammatory remedy in Brazil (Delaporte et al.,
2004), as well as contraceptive agent (Delaporte et al.,
2006). T. loliacea Mart. ex. Schult. f. is used in the
treatment of external ulcers (Agra et al., 2008), as an
anti-rheumatic, and for obstructed liver (Braga, 1976).
Additionally, T. stricta is used in the vicinity of the
Parana River as a diuretic, in gonorrhea treatment and
as an anti-inflammatory (Lucietto et al., 2006).
In Mexican traditional medicine, there are
more than 30 Tillandsia plants reported (Table No. 1),
being the most critical T. recurvata and T. usneoides,
which are used for cough, bronchitis, rheumatism,
ulcers, and hemorrhoids, among other (Bennett, 2000;
Acebey et al., 2006; Grijalva, 2006; De Fátima et al.,
2008; Zamora, 2009; Hornung-Leoni, 2011;
Mondragón et al., 2011). Moreover, in the traditional
medicine of Amatlan, Veracruz, T. recurvata is used
for menstruation concerns (Smith & Downs, 1977;
Smith-Oka, 2007; Smith-Oka, 2008). Also, the leaves
of T. imperialis E. Morren ex Mez are used for
digestive disorders, respiratory tract, hemorrhoids,
inflammation and burns (Sandoval-Bucio et al., 2004;
Vite-Posadas et al., 2011). However, in most cases,
little attention has been placed on the experimental
validation of their medicinal properties.
Table No. 1
Tillandsia plants with uses in the Mexican traditional medicine.
Taxon
Medicinal use/illness
Reference
Tillandsia aeranthos (Loisel.) L.
B. Sm.
Antispasmodic and ocular
infections
Benzing, 1980; Hornung-Leoni,
2011.
Tillandsia andrieuxii (Mez) L. B.
Sm.
Cough, bronchitis
swelling, headache and backache
Sandoval-Bucio et al. 2004;
Mondragón et al., 2011.
Tillandsia balbisiana Schult. f
Bronchitis
Sandoval-Bucio et al., 2004;
Mondragón et al., 2011; Ucan
857 *(MEXU).
Tillandsia brachycaulos Schltdl.
Medicinal properties
Mondragón et al., 2011.
Tillandsia bulbosa Hook.
Migraine in women post-partum
Sandoval-Bucio et al., 2004;
Mondragón et al., 2011;
Gutiérrez 132 *(MEXU).
Tillandsia capillaris Ruiz & Pav.
Medicinal properties
Bennett, 2000; Acebey et al.,
2006.
Tillandsia dasyliriifolia Baker
Cough and bronchitis
Sandoval-Bucio et al., 2004;
Hornung-Leoni, 2011;
Mondragón et al., 2011; Ucan et
al., 1996 *(MEXU).
Tillandsia didisticha (E. Morren)
Baker
Medicinal properties
Acebey et al., 2006.
Estrella-Parra et al.
Chemistry and biological activity of the Tillandsia L. genus
Boletin Latinoamericano y del Caribe de Plantas Medicinales y Aromáticas/243
Tillandsia duratii Vis.
Cardiotonic
Acebey et al., 2006.
Tillandsia elongata Kunth
Bronchitis
Hornung-Leoni, 2011; Ucan 711
*(MEXU).
Tillandsia erubescens Schltdl.
Coughing, anaemia and kidney
problems
Bennett, 2000; Sandoval-Bucio et
al., 2004; Mondragón et al.,
2011.
Tillandsia fasciculata Sw.
Abscess, inflammation and ear
diseases
Sandoval-Bucio et al., 2004;
Mondragón et al., 2011.
Tillandsia festucoides Brongn ex
Mez
Bronchitis
Sandoval-Bucio et al., 2004;
Mondragón et al., 2011;
**(ENCB).
Tillandsia guatemalensis L. B.
Sm.
Majbenal, spiritual illness
Sandoval-Bucio et al., 2004;
Mondragón et al., 2011;
Breedlove **(ENCB).
Tillandsia imperialis E. Morren
ex Mez
Bath "burned child"
Hornung-Leoni, 2011;
Mondragón et al., 2011.
Tillandsia karwinskyana Schult.
f.
Medicinal properties
Mondragón et al., 2011
Tillandsia loliacea Mart. ex
Schult. f.
Uterine bleeding and external
ulcers
Acebey et al., 2006; De Fátima et
al., 2008.
Tillandsia multicaulis Steud.
Medicinal properties
Mondragón et al. 2011.
Tillandsia oaxacana L. B. Sm.
Medicinal properties
Mondragón et al., 2011.
Tillandsia plumosa Baker
Medicinal properties
Mondragón et al., 2011.
Tillandsia polystachia (L.) L.
Medicinal properties
Sandoval-Bucio et al., 2004.
Tillandsia prodigiosa (Lem.)
Baker
Medicinal properties
Mondragón et al., 2011.
Tillandsia recurvata (L.) L.
Burns, cough, bronchitis, back
pain, antidiuretic, pimples,
rheumatism, ulcers, hemorrhoids,
irregular menstruation and
antiangiogenic properties
Hernández et al., 1991; Bennett,
2000; Sandoval-Bucio et al.,
2004; Acebey et al., 2006; De
Fátima et al., 2008; Hornung-
Leoni, 2011; Mondragón et al.,
2011.
Tillandsia recurvifolia Hook.
Medicinal properties
Acebey et al., 2006.
Tillandsia schiedeana Steud.
Headache and fever
Bennett, 2000; Mondragón et al.,
2011.
Tillandsia splendens Brongn.
Medicinal properties
Londoño, 2011.
Tillandsia streptocarpa Baker
Purging, laxative, emetic
De Fátima et al., 2008.
Tillandsia streptophylla Scheidw.
ex C. Morren
Headache
Sandoval-Bucio et al., 2004;
Ucan and Flores 929 *(MEXU).
Tillandsia usneoides (L.) L.
“Persona tapeada”, hemorrhoids,
dandruff, digestive ailments due
to overeating, body
inflammation, antiepileptic and
astringent, gastritis, throat
placenta, accelerate childbirth,
infant epilepsy, astringent,
antipyretic, cough, hernias,
measles, ulcers, arthritis, lung
conditions, Liver, kidney, heart,
contraceptive
Zamora, 2009; Bennett, 2000;
Sandoval-Bucio et al., 2004;
Acebey et al., 2006; Grijalva,
2006; De Fátima et al., 2008;
Mondragón et al., 2011.
Tillandsia vernicosa Baker
Medicinal properties
Acebey et al., 2006.
Tillandsia xiphioides Ker Gawl.
Medicinal properties
Bennett, 2000; Acebey et al.,
2006.
*MEXU: The National Herbarium of Mexico-National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM).
**ENCB: The National School of Biological Sciences-National Polytechnic Institute (IPN).
Estrella-Parra et al.
Chemistry and biological activity of the Tillandsia L. genus
Boletin Latinoamericano y del Caribe de Plantas Medicinales y Aromáticas/244
Chemistry
In general, the compounds from the plants of the
Tillandsia genus have been isolated from organic
extracts, mainly alcoholic (methanol and ethanol),
although also acetone, chloroform, hexane, and
benzene were used. Some extracts have been explored
by CO2 supercritical fluid, and minor attention has
been put in the more polar compounds in aqueous
extracts; hemisynthesis has also been practiced for
some reported compounds the genus (Table No. 2).
The primary compounds in Tillandsia genus are
triterpenoids and sterols (51%), flavonoids (45%) and
cinnamic acids (4%) (Clemes et al., 2008;
Vasconcelos et al., 2013). Historically, in 1861 ash
content for T. usneoides resulted in chemical
properties (Schorger, 1927). However, the
investigation about the chemical of the Tillandsia
genus was initiated at the beginning of the XX century
by American society. Thus, T. usneoides was initially
reported containing as main constituents, water
(15.95%) and carbohydrates (69.50%) (Halligan,
1909; Schorger, 1927; Seldon & Feurt, 1953),
cellulose, (Wise & Meer, 1936), proteins (Pickell,
1890; Halligan, 1909), and wax, which represented a
possible commercial source for natural wax (Schorger,
1927; Seldon & Feurt, 1953).
The first chemical analyses of ash of Spanish-
moss T. usneoides were reported containing Na2O,
K2O, MgO, CaO, Fe2O3, SiO2, P2O5 and SO3
(Halligan, 1909; Wherry & Buchanan, 1926; Wherry
& Capen, 1928). T. usneoides was reported containing
sugars and other non-identified chemical constituents
with potential commercial value (Marsden, 1918) and
a sample of this species, which was recollected in the
winter season, it was reported with 15 mg/g and 46
mg/g of carotene and ascorbic acid, respectively,
representing nutritional levels of interest for cattle
(French & Abott, 1948). T. aeranthos (Loisel) L.B.
Sm. was reported containing polysaccharides (Moyna
& Tubío, 1977).
Although the value mineral, bromatological
and nutrimental of T. usneoides was already known, its
first secondary metabolite, a phenol methyl ether
glucoside, was described for Schorger in 1927, who
also reported chlorophyll and a sterol (Schorger,
1927). The corolla of T. fragrans André (Salgues,
1955) contained 0.18% of essential oil and 74% of
several free alcohols as citronellol (52%), geraniol
(20%), and nerol (2%), as well as 18% of esters. These
findings allow hypothesizing about the possible
obtaining from T. fragrans of a fragrance of cosmetic
interest, which also should be explored in other
Tillandsia plants.
Until the 60s and 70s, the chemistry of
Tillandsia was more addressed toward its biological
activities, probably due to the development of tools
and techniques for the identification assertive of
molecules.
Table No. 2 enlists the chemical compounds in
distinct Tillandsia species. McCrindle and Djerassi
(1961) and Djerassi and McCrindle (1962) reported 15
cycloartanes triterpenoids isolated of T. usneoides
(compounds 1-15). Ten years later, Atalla and
Nicholas (1971) reported similar compounds, sharing
at least three compounds 19, 20, and 21). Later, Lewis
and Mabry (1977) reported the first poly-hydroxylated
molecule: 3,6,3’,5’-tetramethoxy-5,7,4’-trihydroxyfla-
vone, corresponding to a compound iso-flavonoid type
(Table 2).
From the decade of the 90s, the growing
interest for the Tillandsia plants in the scientific
society increased the number of reports. Cabrera et al.
(1995, 1996), Cabrera & Seldes (1995, 1997)
Cantillo-Ciau (2001, 2003), Delaporte et al. (2004),
Delaporte & Laverde (2006), and Lowe et al. (2012a,
2013c) confirmed the presence of cycloartanes
triterpenoids in Tillandsia species. Also, Wollenberger
et al. (1992), Queiroga et al. (2004), Delaporte et al.
(2006) as well as Lowe et al. (2014c), reported the
presence of phenolic compounds in different
Tillandsia plants (Table No. 2). The chemical
properties confirmed into the genus also permitted
delving in the knowledge of its biological effects,
supporting several of its traditional medical use (Table
No. 3).
Estrella-Parra et al.
Chemistry and biological activity of the Tillandsia L. genus
Boletin Latinoamericano y del Caribe de Plantas Medicinales y Aromáticas/245
Table No. 2
Chemistry of Tillandsia spp.
Tillandsia
Chemistry and biological activity
Author
usneoides
1. CH=CH-C[(2CH3)-(OH)]
2. CH=CH-C[(2CH3)-(OCH3)]
3. CH2-CH=C[2(CH2)]
4. CH2-CH(OH)-CH [(CH3)(CH2)]
5. CH2-CH (OAc)-CH[(CH3)(CH2)]
6. CH2-CO-CH[(CH3)(CH2)]
7. CH2-CH2-C[(2CH3)(OH)] (s)
8. 2 (CH2)-CH [2(CH3)]
9. CH (OH)-CH(OH)-C[(2CH3)-(OH)]
10. CHO
11. CO2H(s)
12. CO2 CH3(s)
13. CH2-CO-CH[2(CH3)]
14. CH2-CH
15. CH2-CO-C[(CH3) CH2)](s)
As well as friedelin and β-sitosterol
s: semi-synthesis
McCrindle &
Djerassi,
1961;
Djerassi &
McCrindle,
1962
R1
R2
R3
R4
16
O
CH3
CH3
CH(CH3)-2(CH2)-CH=C [2 (CH3)]
17
OH
CH3
CH3
CH(CH3)-2(CH2)-CH=C [2 (CH3)]
18
OH
CH3
CH3
CH(CH3)-2(CH2)-CO-CH[(CH3) (CH2)]
19
OH
CH3
CH3
CH(CH3)-2(CH2)-CH(OH)-CH[(CH3) (CH2)]
20
OH
CH3
CH3
CH3CH(CH3)-CH2-CH=CH-C[2(CH3)-(OH)]
21
OH
CH3
CH3
CH(CH3)-CH2-CH=CH-C[2(CH3)-(OCH3)]
22
OH
CH3
H
CH(CH3)-2(CH2)-C(CH2)-CH [2(CH3)]
23
OH
CH3
CH3
CH(CH3)-2(CH2)-C(CH2)-CH[2(CH3)]
24
OH
CH3
CH3
CH(CH3)-2(CH2)-CH(CH3)-CH[(CH3) (CH2)]
25
OH
CH3
CH3
CH(CH3)-2(CH2)-C(CH3)-CH [2(CH3)]
As well as cholestane, cholesterol, campesterol, stigmasterol, β-
sitosterol, and 2 triterpene alcohol.
In conclude: 24-methylene cycloartanol is the major triterpene alcohol
Atalla &
Nicholas,
1971
Estrella-Parra et al.
Chemistry and biological activity of the Tillandsia L. genus
Boletin Latinoamericano y del Caribe de Plantas Medicinales y Aromáticas/246
Lewis &
Mabry, 1977
Wollenber-
ger et al.,
1992
Cabrera et al.,
1995
Strepto-
carpa
Delaporte et
al., 2004;
Delaporte et
al., 2006
R1 R2 R3 R4 R5
26. H OCH3 H OCH3 OCH3
27. H OH OCH3 H OCH3
28. OCH3 OH H H OH
Dimethyl 3,4-seco-cycloart -4(29), 24E-diene-3,26-dioate
In conclude: New compound
Dimethyl 3,4-seco-cycloart -4(29), 24E-diene-3,26-dioate
3,6,3’,5’-tetramethoxy-5,7,4’-trihydroxyflavone
In conclude: new compound
Myricetin-3,3',4',7-tetramethyl
In conclude: The lipophilic flavonoids as exudate constituents,
deposited externally, on leaf and stem surfaces ether
myricetin-3,3',4',7-tetramethyl ether
In conclude: Phenylpropanoid glycerols
in Tillandsia genus.
In conclude:
As well as other mixture
compounds methoxylated 5-
hydroxyflavones
Estrella-Parra et al.
Chemistry and biological activity of the Tillandsia L. genus
Boletin Latinoamericano y del Caribe de Plantas Medicinales y Aromáticas/247
purpurea
Arslanian et
al., 1986
recurvata
Cabrera &
Seldes, 1995
usneoides
Cabrera et al.,
1996
R1 R2 R3
29. OH H OCH3
30. OCH3 OCH3 H
31. OCH3 OCH3 OCH3
57. CH(CH3)-3(CH2)-CO-CH3
58. CH(CH3)-CH2-CHO
59. CH(CH3)-2(CH2)-CHO
51.CH (CH3)-3 (CH2)-CO- CH3.
52.CH (CH3)-CH2-CHO.
53 CH (CH3)-2 (CH2)-CHO.
52. R= H
53. R= CH3
46. R= H
47. R= CH3
54. CH(CH3)-CH2-CH=CH.C[(2CH3)(OH)]
55. CH(CH3)-(CH2)-CH=CH-C[(2CH3)(OCH3)]
56. CH(CH3)-2(CH2)-CH (OH)-C[(CH3)(CH2)]
48.CH (CH3)-CH2-CH=CH.C [(2 CH3) (OH)]
49.CH (CH3)-(CH2)-CH=CH-C [(2 CH3) (OCH3)]
50.CH (CH3)-2 (CH2)-CH (OH)-C [(CH3) (CH2)]
37. CH(CH3)-CH=CH-CHO
38. CH(CH3)-2(CH2)-CH=C[(CHO)(CH3)]
39.CH(CH3)-2(CH2)-CH (OH)-C[(CH2) (CH3)]
40. CH(CH3)-CH2-CH=CH-C[(2CH3)(OCH3)]
41. CH(CH3)-CH2-CH=CH-C[(2CH3)(OOH)]
42. CH(CH3)-3(CH2)-OH
43. CH(CH3)-2(CH2)-CH=C[(CO2H)(CH3)]
44. CH(CH3)-CH2-CH=CH-C[(2CH3)(OH)]
31. CH (CH3)-CH=CH-CHO
32. CH (CH3)-2 (CH2)-CH=C [(CHO) (CH3)]
33.CH (CH3)-2 (CH2)-CH (OH)-C [(CH2) (CH3)]
34. CH (CH3)-CH2-CH=CH-C [(2 CH3) (OCH3)]
35. CH (CH3)-CH2-CH=CH-C [(2 CH3) (OOH)]
36. CH (CH3)-3 (CH2)-OH
37. CH (CH3)-2 (CH2)-CH=C [(CO2H) (CH3)]
38. CH (CH3)-CH2-CH=CH-C [(2 CH3) (OH)]
45. CH(CH3)-2(CH2)-CH(OH)-CH[(CH2)(CH3)]
46. CH(CH3)-CH2-CH=CH-C[(2CH3)(OOH)]
47. CH(CH3)-CH2-CH=CH-C[(2CH3)(OH)]
48. CH(CH3)-CH2-CH=CH-C[(2CH3)(OCH3)]
49. CH(CH3)-2(CH2)-CH(OOH)-C[(CH2)(CH3)]
50. CH(CH3)-2(CH2)-CO-CH[(CH2)(CH3)]
51. CH(CH3)-2(CH2)-CH=CH-C[(CH3)(CHO)]
39. CH (CH3)-2 (CH2)-CH (OH)-CH [(CH2) (CH3)]
40. CH (CH3)-CH2-CH=CH-C [(2 CH3) (OOH)]
41. CH (CH3)-CH2-CH=CH- C [(2 CH3) (OH)]
42. CH (CH3)-CH2-CH=CH- C [(2 CH3) (OCH3)]
43.CH (CH3)-2 (CH2)-CH (OOH)-C [(CH2) (CH3)]
44. CH (CH3)-2 (CH2)-CO-CH [(CH2) (CH3)]
45. CH (CH3)-2 (CH2)-CH=CH-C [(CH3) (CHO)]
32. CH(CH3)-CH2-CH=CH-C[(2 CH3)(OOH)]
33.CH(CH3)-2 (CH2)-CH (OOH)-CH[(CH2)(CH3)]
34. CH(CH3)-CH2-CH=CH- C[(2 CH3)(OH)]
35. CH(CH3)-2(CH2)-CH (OH)-C[(CH2)(CH3)]
36. CH(CH3)-2(CH2)-CH=CH-C[2(CH3)]
Estrella-Parra et al.
Chemistry and biological activity of the Tillandsia L. genus
Boletin Latinoamericano y del Caribe de Plantas Medicinales y Aromáticas/248
Cabrera &
Seldes, 1997
Recurvata
Queiroga et
al., 2004
fasciculata
Cantillo-Ciau
et al., 2001
brachy-
caulos
Cantillo-Ciau
et al., 2003
5,39-dihydroxy-6,7,8,49-tetramethoxyflavanone
Ethyl ester of caffeic acid
Ethyl ester of caffeic acid
1,3-Di-O-cinnamoylglycerol
R R1
60. O β-iPr
61. β-OCOH, α-H CH3
62. O CH3
63. β-OCOH, α-H CH3
64. β-OAc, α-H CH3
R R1
54 O β-iPr
55 β-OCOH, α-H CH3
56 O CH3
57 β-OCOH, α-H CH3
58. β-OAc, α-H CH3
R
65. β-OH, α-H
66. β-OAc, α-H
67. O
Tillandsinone
Tillandsinone
Chlorogenic acid
Chlorogenic acid
In conclude: The short side-chain cycloartanes
are the majority compounds
27-nor-3β-hydroxycycloart-23-en-25-one
Isopiramic acid
Isopiramic acid
Microbicide (10 µl of a 5% (w/v) toward S. aureus, B. subtilis, S.
agalactiae, E. colli, P. aeruginosa, K. pneumoniae, S. flexneri serotype
4, C. albicans, S. cerevisiae, A. niger and T. mentagrophytes. Compound
60 was obtaining from compound hemi synthesis, without biological
activity.
As well as: Cycloartenone, cycloartanone, 24-
methylenecycloartanone, cycloartanol, 24-
methylenecycloartanol, lanosterol, lanostenol,
and 24-ethylcholest-4-en-3
Estrella-Parra et al.
Chemistry and biological activity of the Tillandsia L. genus
Boletin Latinoamericano y del Caribe de Plantas Medicinales y Aromáticas/249
recurvata
Lowe et al.,
2013c
Lowe and
Bryant, 2013
Compounds 89, 90, 92, 93, were active as well as extract MeOH
toward HL-60, K562, MOLM-14, monoMac6 (IC50= from 1.83 μM
to 18.3 μM). Compounds 89-93 were active toward myotonic
dystrophy kinase-related Cdc42-binding kinase (MRCK). Compound
91 was poorly soluble
80. CH2-CH=CH-CO-CH3
81. CH2-CH=CH-CH= CH2
82. 2 (CH2)-CH (OOH)-C [(CH3) (CH2)]
83. 2 (CH2)-CH(OH)-C [(CH3) (CH2)]
84. CH2-CH=CH2
85. 18. CH2-CH(=O)
86. 19. CH=CH2
87. 20. 3 (CH2)-CO- CH3
88. 21. 3 (CH2)-CH= CH2
89. 22. 2 (CH2)-CH=C [2 (CH3)]
In conclude: Therapeutic cycloartane extract from T. recurvata, for use
in regressing cancerous tumors and/or for anti-inflammatory effect, as
well as the method for inhibiting prostate cancer (killed 99.1% of B-16
cells)
90. CH2-CO-CH=C (CH3)-COOH
91. 2 (CH2)-CH (OH)-C [(2 CH3) (OH)]
92. CH2-CH=CH-C [(2 CH3) (OH)
93. CH2-COOH
94. 2 (CH2)-COOH
95. CH2
And other four triterpenes
R R1
68. H CH=CH-CO-CH3
69. CH3 CH=CH-C[(2 CH3)(OOH)]
70. CH3 (E) CH=CH-C [(2 CH3)(OH)]
71. CH3 CH=CH-CH[(CH3) (CH2)]
72. CH3 2 (CH2)-CO-CH3
73. CH3 CH2-CHO
74. CH3 CH2-CH(OOH)-C[(CH3)(CH2)]
75. CH3 CH2-CH(OH)- C[(CH3)(CH2)]
76. CH3 CH2-CH=C[2(CH2)]
77. CH3 CH2-CH (OH)-C[(2 CH3)(OH)]
78. H CH2-C (CH2)-Pr-i.
79. CH3 (Z) CH=CH-C [(2 CH3)(OH)]
R R1
61 H CH=CH-CO-CH3
62 CH3 CH=CH-C [(2 CH3)
(OOH)]
63 CH3 (E) CH=CH-C [(2 CH3)
(OH)]
64 CH3 CH=CH-CH [(CH3) (CH2)]
65 5. CH3 2 (CH2)-CO-CH3
66 CH3 CH2-CHO
67 CH3 CH2-CH (OOH)-C [(CH3)
(CH2)]
68 CH3 CH2-CH (OH)- C [(CH3)
(CH2)]
69 CH3 CH2-CH=C [2 (CH2)]
70. CH3 CH2-CH (OH)-C [(2 CH3)
(OH)]
71. H CH2-C (CH2)-Pr-i.
72. CH3 (Z) CH=CH-C [(2 CH3)
(OH)]
In conclude: Cycloartane
showed inhibition toward kinase
and angiogenesis in prostate
cancer cells, without causing
excessive damage to normal
cells
Estrella-Parra et al.
Chemistry and biological activity of the Tillandsia L. genus
Boletin Latinoamericano y del Caribe de Plantas Medicinales y Aromáticas/250
Lowe et al.,
2014a
Hemi-synthesis
Lowe et al.,
2014b
99. CO-CH=CH-C [(COOH) (CH3)
100. CH2-CH(OH)-C [(2 CH3) (OH)]
101. CH=CH-C [(2 CH3) (OH)]
96. CH=CH-C [(2 CH3) (OH)]
97. CH2-CH (OH)-C [(2 CH3) (OH)]
98. CH2-CH (OH)-C [(CH3) (CH2)]
1,3-di-O-cinnamoyl-glycerol
in situ to the Wittig reagent
In conclude: The compounds did
not show anticancer activity
2-acetoxy-5-((E)-3-(3-((E)-3-(3,4-dimethoxy phenyl) acryloyloxy)-2-
hydropropoxy)- 3-
xoprop- 1-enyl) benzoic acid
3-(3,4-dimethoxy-phenyl)-acrylic acid 2-hydroxy-3-(3-ptolyl-acryloyloxy)-
propyl ester
4-((E)-3-(3-((E)-3-(3,4-dimethoxy phenyl) acryloyloxy)-2-hydropropoxy)-
3-oxoprop-1-enyl) benzoic acid
In conclude: The majority of
cycloartanes type triterpene were active
against leukemia cancer.
Estrella-Parra et al.
Chemistry and biological activity of the Tillandsia L. genus
Boletin Latinoamericano y del Caribe de Plantas Medicinales y Aromáticas/251
Lowe, 2014
fasciculate
Exposure to mercury vapors-saturated, during 10 days
Siegel et al.,
1987
R1 R2 R3 R4 R5 R6
Pyrogallol OH OH OH H H H
Gallic acid H COOH H OH OH OH
Guaiacol H OH OCH3 H H H
Dymethoxyphenol H OCH3 OCH3 OH H H
p (N-methylamino) phenol H H NH-CH3 H H H
R1 R2 R3 R4
R5 R6
Pyrogallol OH OH OH H
H H
Gallic acid H COOH H OH
OH OH
Guaiacol H OH OCH3 H
H H
Dymethoxyphenol………………H OCH3 OCH3 OH
H H
p (N-methylamino) phenol H H NH-CH3 H
H H
In conclude: Increment of peroxidase activity due
at phenol compounds
In conclude:
(E)-3-(cinnamoyloxy)-2-hydroxypropyl
3-(3,4-dimethoxyphenyl) acrylate
(E)-3-(cinnamoyloxy)-2-hydroxypropyl
3-(3,4-dimethoxyphenyl) acrylate
1. Phosphonium bromide
2. Wittig reaction
1. Phosphonium bromide
2. Wittig reaction
((E)-(2-(3-(3-(3,4-dimethoxy
phenyl) acryloyloxy)-2-
hydroxypropoxy)-2-
oxoethyl) triphenyl
phosphonium bromide)
1. Acetic anhydride
2. varying the molar ratio of 2,3-diacetylcaffeic
acid
(E)-3-(cinnamoyloxy)-2-hydroxypropyl
3-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl) acrylate
2-acetoxy-4-((E)-3-(3-
((E)-3-(3,4-dimethoxy
phenyl) acryloyloxy)-2-
hydroxy propoxy)-3-
oxoprop-1-enyl)
benzoic acid
Caffeic acid
1. Acetylation of 4-formyl-2-hydroxybenzoic
acid
2. Acetic anhydride (AC2O) and
triethylamine (TEA)
In conclude: B-16-cell line. Activity of analogous compounds, cytotoxic
activity with anticancerogenic potential.
3,4-
Dimethoxycaffeic
acid
Estrella-Parra et al.
Chemistry and biological activity of the Tillandsia L. genus
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Reported compounds: 1. cycloart-23-ene-3β ,25-diol; 2. 25-methoxycycloart-23-en-3β-ol; 3. Cycloartenol; 4. cycloart-25-
ene-3β,24(α or β)-diol; 5. Acetate of cycloart-25-ene-3β,24(α or β)-diol; 6. 3β-hydroxycycloart-25-en-24-one; 7. 25-
hydroxycloartanol; 8. Cycloartanol; 9. 3β -acetoxycycloart-23, 24, 25-triol; 10. nd; 11. nd; 12. Methyl 3β-hydroxy-24,25,26,27-
tetranorcycloartan-23-oate; 13. 3 β-hydroxy-cycloartan-24-one; 14. Cycloartenone; 15. Cycloartenol; 16. Cycloartenone; 17.
Cycloartenol; 18. 3β-hydroxycycloart-25-ene-24-one; 19. cycloart-25-ene-3 β,24 (α or β)-diol; 20. Cycloart-23-ene-3β,25-diol;
21. 25-methoxycycloart-23-ene-3β-ol; 22. Cycloeucalenol; 23. 24-methylenecycloartanol; 24. Cyclolaudenol; 25. 24-
methycycloartanol; 26. 6-Hydroxykaempferol 3,6,7.4'-tetramethyl ether; 27. Cirsilineol; 28. Jaceosidin; 29. Penduletin 4’-0-
methyl ether (5-hydroxy-3,6,7,4‘-tetramethoxyflavone); 30. Artemetin (5-hydroxy-3,6,7,3’,4’-pentamethoxyflavone); 31.
Retusin (5-hydroxy-3,7,3’,4’-tetramethoxyflavone); 32. 25-hydroperoxycycloart-23-en-3β-ol; 33. 24-hydroperoxycycloart-25-
en-3β-ol; 34. Hemisynthesis 1 cycloart-23-ene-3β, 25-diol; 35. Hemisynthesis 2 cycloart-25-ene-3β,24(α or β)-diol; 36.
Cycloartenol; 37.(22E)-25,26,27-trisnor-3-oxocycloart-22-en-24-al; 38. (24E)-3-oxocycloart-24-en-26-al; 39. 24-
hydroxycycloart-25-en-3-one, 40. (23E)-25-methoxycycloart-23-en-3-one; 41. (23E)-25-hydroperoxycycloart-23-en-3-one; 42.
25,26,27-trisnor-24-hydroxycycloartan-3-one; 43. schisandronic acid; 44. Hydroxycycloart-23-en-3-one,25; 45. cycloart-25-
ene-3β,24(α or β)-diol; 46. (23E)-cycloart-23-ene-3â,25-diol; 47. cycloart-23-ene-3β ,25-diol; 48. (23E)-25-methoxycycloart-
23-en-3â-ol; 49. 24-hydroperoxycycloart-25-en-3β-ol; 50. 3β-hydroxycycloart-25-en-24-one; 51. 24(E)-3α-hydroxycycloart-
24-en-26-al; 52. Methyl (24E)-26-carboxy-3,4-seco-cycloarta-4(29),24-dien-3-oate; 53. Dimethyl 3,4-seco-cycloart -4(29),
24(E)-diene-3,26-dioate; 54. Methyl (23E)-25-hydroxy-3,4-seco-cycloart-23-en-3-oate; 55. 7. methyl (23E)-25-methoxy-3,4-
seco-cycloart-23-en-3-oate; 56. methyl 24-hydroxy-3,4-seco-cycloart-25-en-3-oate; 57. 27-nor-cycloartan-3,25-dione; 58.
24,25,26,27-tetranor-3-oxo-cycloartan-23-al; 59. 25,26,27-trisnor-3-oxocycloartan-24-al; 60. Tillandsinone (24-
isopropenylcycloartan-3-one); 61. Cyclolaudenyl formate; 62. Cyclolaudenone; 63. Cyclolaudenol; 64. Cyclolaudenyl acetate;
65. (24S)-24-isopropenyl-29-nor-5α-lanosta-7-en-3β-ol; 66. (24S)-24-isopropenyl-29-nor-5α-lanosta-7-en-3β-yl-acetate; 67.
(24S)-24-isopropenyl-29-nor-5α-lanosta-7-en-3-one; 68. 27-nor-3β-hydroxycycloart-23-en-25-one; 69. (23E)-cycloart-23-ene-
3â,25-diol; 70. cycloart-23-ene-3β ,25-diol; 71. 3β-hydroxycycloart-25-en-24-one; 72. nd; 73. Wrightial; 74. 24-
hydroperoxycycloart-25-en-3β-ol; 75. cycloart-25-ene-3β,24(α or β)-diol; 76. Cycloartenol; 77. Cycloartane-3,24,25-triol; 78.
Cycloeucalenol; 79. Sterculin; 80. nd; 81. nd; 82. nd; 83. nd; 84. nd; 85. nd; 86. nd; 87. 27-nor-cycloartan-3,25-dione; 88. nd;
89. nd; 90. 3 ,23-Dioxo-9,19-cyclolanost-24-en-26-oic acid; 91. 24,25-Dihydroxycycloartan-3-one; 92. Hydroxycycloart-23-
en-3-one,25; 93. nd; 94. nd; 95. nd; 96. Cycloart-23-ene-3,25-diol; 97. Cycloartane-3,24,25-triol; 98. Cycloart-25-ene-3,24-
diol; 99. 3,23-Dioxo-9,19-cyclolanost-24-en-26-oic acid; 100. 24,25-Dihydroxycycloartan-3-one; 101. Hydroxycycloart-23-en-
3-one,25-ol.
Pharmacological activities
The medicinal uses of Tillandsia in many cultures
have satisfied the use of several experimental models
for its study. Mainly, in vitro (microbicide, antiviral
and cytotoxic) and in vivo (hypoglycemic, anticancer,
and anti-inflammatory), whereas clinical studies there
are not yet available. Table No. 3 enlists the
ethnobotanic data and primary pharmacological
studies in distinct Tillandsia species in order of
importance. In Table 4, the similar studies that have
been carried out with different Tillandsia species are
listed. Weld (1945) and Webber et al. (1952) reported
a flavonol-type glycoside as microbicide agent from T.
usneoides extracts. Also, Feurt & Fox (1952) indicated
the effect estrogenic of eight species of Tillandsia,
which induced estrus in male rats (two to the last row
in Table 2). Posteriorly, Williams (1978) observed in a
wide variety of Tillandsia species the presence of
quercetin and flavonols hydroxylated, among other
compounds, which are enlisted in the Table No. 4.
Keller et al. (1981) and Medon et al. (1985)
reported the hypoglycemic effect of T. usneoides in
rats. Simultaneously, Ulubelen & Mabry (1982),
Arslanian et al. (1986) and Siegel et al. (1987)
reported poly-hydroxylated flavonoids isolated from T.
purpurea, T. fasciculata, and T. utriculata (Table 2).
Siegel et al. (1987) informed the induction of
antioxidant compounds in T. fasciculata due to the
utruculata
Ulubelen &
Mabry, 1982
As well as C-glycosyl flavones with apigenin skeletons
As well as C-glycosyl flavones with apigenin skeletons
In conclude: The first report on
the occurrence of the
phenylpropanoid glycerols in
Tillandsia genus
In conclude:
Estrella-Parra et al.
Chemistry and biological activity of the Tillandsia L. genus
Boletin Latinoamericano y del Caribe de Plantas Medicinales y Aromáticas/253
presence of mercury vapors, which incremented the
peroxidase activity.
Witherup et al. (1995) confirmed the use of T.
usneoides against diabetes, being the 3-hydroxy-3-
methyl glutaric acid (HMG), the molecule active
(Table No. 3). Cantillo-Ciau (2003) and Vite-Posadas
et al. (2011) retaken the pharmacological study of the
plants of the Tillandsia genus (Weld 1945 and Webber
et al., 1952) as a microbicide in human pathogen
organisms (Cantillo-Ciau et al., 2003; Vite-Posadas et
al., 2011). Cantillo-Ciau et al. (2001) also reported the
compounds 60-64 from T. brachycaulos. Delaporte et
al. (2004) reported several compounds from T.
streptocarpa (cycloartenol, 4',5-dihydroxy-3',7-
dimethoxyflavone, and compounds 26-28), which is
used in medicine traditional as analgesic and anti-
inflammatory, which inhibited the ear edema in the rat.
In both cases existed a positive correlation between the
traditional uses of this plant and the experimental data.
Posteriorly, Andrighetti-Fröhner et al. (2005)
reported the antiviral activity (HSV-1) of polyphenol
compounds from T. usneoides, which in traditional
medicine was indicated for the treatment of
ophthalmic illnesses, again validating the relationship
between conventional use and experimental data. The
molecules in T. buseri, β-sitosterol, 4-
methylcholesterol, and lanosterol, showed utility as
biomarkers for the reconstruction of vegetation in the
past (Jansen et al., 2007). More recently, Lowe et al.
(2008, 2012a, 2013b, 2014a) reported T. recurvata
organic extracts against leukemia and prostate cancer
that is the sixth leading cause of death in men
(Stennett & White 2013), conferring biological activity
to the cycloartane triterpenes, to the phenolics
compounds and the soyasaponin molecule (compounds
68-101).
On the other context, it was also reported that
a fungus (Xylariaceae sp.), which is a host of T.
usneoides, synthesizes cytochalasin, a metabolite with
cytotoxic effect in human tumor cell lines (Xu et al.,
2015). Also, 1,3-di-O-cinnamoyl-glycerol failed as an
anticancer drug, which was isolated from CHCl3
extract, although this extract if it was active,
Therefore, other compounds in the extract. Also,
several derivates by hemisynthesis were obtained
which also were studied (Table No. 2).
Thus, T. usneoides and T. recurvata are the
plants most studied of the Tillandsia genus; however,
other Tillandsia species exhibited a similar chemical
content as well as biological effects of interest, such as
anti-diabetic, bactericide, microbicide, anti-
inflammatory, antiviral, and anti-cancer, which should
be studied in depth including clinical studies.
Therefore, the future is promising for exploring more
biological effects of other Tillandsia plants against
various diseases.
Some other medical applications of Tillandsia
plants, particularly of T. usneoides, have been
practiced since the mid-twentieth century. Dean (1943)
and Metzger (1943) reported that extracts of T.
usneoides possessed antigenic properties against
rhinitis and asthma, without an allergic reaction.
Nowadays, many Chinese medicinal preparations
based in T. usneoides as post-treatment in craniotomy
surgery (Lin, 2013), post-dural puncture headache (Li
& Cui, 2013) and hiatal hernia (Wang, 2013) have
been proposed. In addition, a method to obtain nucleus
in suspension for investigation from Tillandsia plants
was proposed (Jin et al., 2014), including the use of T.
recurvata in processes of harvesting, packaging,
transportation, and production of capsules and tablets,
and as an alternative medicament against AIDS-related
diseases (Aizpurua, 1998).
Tillandsia genus: the future
The future of Tillandsia research is uncertain and
paradoxically disastrous in many Latin-American
countries. For instance, in Mexico, particularly in
some communities at Queretaro, State of Mexico and
Veracruz, the people responsible for the care of the
Protected Natural Areas depleted the Tillandsia plants
due to the erroneous conception of that are parasitic
plants. Fortunately, nowadays we are proposing as a
strategy the environmental education, to give more
diffusion of the ecological, medicinal, social,
economic and cultural importance of the plants of the
Tillandsia genus. For instance, there are communities
in which the care of Tillandsia species is a priority, as
at Santa Catarina Ixtepeji and the community of ‘El
Mandimbo’ in San Miguel del Puerto, Oaxaca,
México. In these localities, native people under the
tutelage of their traditional uses and customs, and their
forests protect these plants against pillage and the
deforestation. The acquisition of natural resources
requires official permission. The goal will be to stop
the harmful practices with this resource, which is
relevant worldwide.
T. usneoides and T. recurvata also can have
utility as atmospheric indicators (Wherry and Capen,
1928). Brazil and Mexico reported the efficiency of T.
usneoides for this purpose (Cardoso-Gustavson et al.,
2016; Castañeda et al., 2016). T. velutina Ehlers also is
Estrella-Parra et al.
Chemistry and biological activity of the Tillandsia L. genus
Boletin Latinoamericano y del Caribe de Plantas Medicinales y Aromáticas/254
a good indicator of atmospheric pollutant
formaldehyde (Li et al., 2015). The study of the
Tillandsia genus as an indicator of environmental
pollutants is a topic of high relevance that should be
considered in further studies.
Table No. 3
Traditional use and pharmacological effects of Tillandsia spp.
Tillandsia
Part
used
Extract
Use, chemistry and biological activity
Author
usneoides
nd
Alcoholic
Antibiotic action against H. influenza, C.
hominis, E. colli and B. proteus.
In conclude: Microbicide.
Weld, 1945
Acetone
M. pyrogenes var. aureus (S. aureus) (0.2 ml
sample showed a 1.0 to 1.5 cm inhibition
zone)
In conclude: microbicide; responsible
molecule: flavonol-type glycoside.
Webber et
al., 1952
Whole
plant
Aqueous
(tea). In
south
Louisiana
is used
for
diabetes
Blood glucose decrease (%) by oral
administration of T. usneoides aqueous
extract in rats.
Dose (mg/kg)/ Time (h)
4
8
125
28.7
19.4
250
20.2
27.2
500
21.2
27.1
In conclude: Hypoglycemic activity.
Keller et
al., 1981
nd
Aqueous/
EtOH
hypoglycemia (11.1% and 9.4%, respectively)
at 7 day in rats.
In conclude: Hypoglycemic effect.
Medon, et
al., 1985
Fresh
moss
EtOH
Tea has been used in Louisiana to allay the
symptoms of diabetes mellitus.
3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaric acid (HMG)
decreased blood glucose (41.7%) in mice.
In conclude: Hypoglycemic effect.
3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaric acid (HMG)
Witherup
et al., 1995
Water
Whole
plant
Used traditionally for diabetes.
In conclude: Hypoglycemic effect.
Marles and
Farnsworth
, 1995
Aerial
parts
CH2CL2
hexane,
EtOAc,
Usos: Hypertesion, rheumatism, hemorrhoids,
cholagogue, diuretic, renal and ophthalmic
illnesses.
Andrighetti
-Fröhner et
al., 2005
Estrella-Parra et al.
Chemistry and biological activity of the Tillandsia L. genus
Boletin Latinoamericano y del Caribe de Plantas Medicinales y Aromáticas/255
n-butanol
Extracts showed activity against Herpes
simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) Kos strain (CE50=
10, 3, 3 µg/ml, respectively) as well as HSV-1
29-R strain (CE50= 29, 23, 12 µg/ml,
respectively).
In conclude: Antiviral activity is due to
polyphenol compounds.
recurvata
Super-
critic
fluid
Extracts
CO2/Me
OH
70/30
nd
In vitro:
Three bioactive fractions: cytotoxic 99.1% at
0.07-70 μg/ml in B16 cells (100% kill; 1
mg/ml); also inhibited: PC-3, K SIMM, BLym,
BC.EC50=70 ng/mL
In vivo:
Extract: 5-10 mg/kg subcutaneously during
seven days. Apoptosis cell death. Decreased
inflammatory process.
In conclude: Anticancer properties from T.
recurvata extract.
Soyasponin I
Lowe,
2008; Lowe
et al.,
2012a;
Lowe et al.,
2012c
Estrella-Parra et al.
Chemistry and biological activity of the Tillandsia L. genus
Boletin Latinoamericano y del Caribe de Plantas Medicinales y Aromáticas/256
Whole
plant
CHCl3
Extract inhibited MEK5, GAK, CSNK2A2, FLT
and DRAK1 (Kd50<20 μg/ml), as well as protein
kinase 1 (DRAPK1, Kd50=12 μg/ml).
In conclude: Extract active against MEK5 and
GAK (associated with prostate cancer).
Cycloart-23-ene-3,25-triol inhibited MRCk
(Kd50= 0.26 µM), showing cytotoxicity toward
PC-3 and DU145 (IC50= 2.22 and 1.67 µM),
respectively.
In conclude: Cycloartane-3,24,25-triol has
shown potential for development as an anti-
cancer agent against prostate cancer.
Cycloart-23-ene-3,25-triol
Lowe et al.,
2012a;
Lowe et al.,
2012b
CHCl3
Aortic ring ex vivo: extract inhibited sprout
formation (10-20 μg/ml). Cytotoxic activity in
A375, MCF-7 and PC-3 (0.9, 40.51 and 5.97
μg/ml, respectively.
In conclude: Anticancer activity of the extract
by anti-angiogenesis effect. The compound C1
inhibited sprout formation with weak
cytotoxic activity. C2 exhibited also weak
cytotoxic activity.
C1. 1,3-di-O-Cinnamoyl-glycerol (R=H).
C2. (E)-3-(cinnamoyloxy)-2-hydroxypropyl 3-
(3,4- dimethoxyphenyl) acrylate (R=OCH3)
Lowe et al.,
2012d;
Lowe et al.,
2013a
Estrella-Parra et al.
Chemistry and biological activity of the Tillandsia L. genus
Boletin Latinoamericano y del Caribe de Plantas Medicinales y Aromáticas/257
Reported solvents: MeOH. Methanol; EtOH; ethanol; CHCl3; chloroform; CH2Cl2. Dichloromethane; EtOAc. Ethyl acetate; nd: no determined
Table No. 4
Similar studies that have been carried out with different Tillandsia species.
Tillandsia
Used part
Extract
Ethnobotanical data and pharmacological studies
Reference
aloifolia
balbisiana
circinate
fasciculata
juncea
simulata
tenuifolia
usneoides
Fresh
plant
Water,
Benzene,
EtOAc,
CHCl3
Adult female rats (1 mg of the crude extract)
during 48 h, female albino rats (0.01 mg/30 g;
extract/ body
In conclude: induced estrus in ovariectomized
male rats
Feurt &
Fox, 1952
Williams, 1978
Tillandsia
palutelin 3-
glucoside
6-OH-flavonols
6-OH-
luteolin
Quercetin
C-glycosides
Luteolin
caput-medusae
✓
cyanea
✓
aeranthos
✓
✓
lindeniana
✓
✓
✓
morrenian
✓
✓
streptophyla
✓
tricolor
✓
brachycaulos
✓
streptocarpa
✓
recurvata
✓
bulbosa
✓
Tillandsia:
aeranthos
recurvata
usneoides
nd
EtOH
Antispasmodic and against infection eye Antibiotic
effects against E. colli, S. aureus, P. aeruginosa, B.
utilis and M. luteus (10 mg/ml).
In conclude: Direct relationship between
traditional medicine and experimental study
Alonso et
al., 1995
Compounds reported in MeOH extracts of leaf and steam of other Tillandsias spp
In conclude: Flavonoids present with hydroxylation or methoxylation at the 6 or 8 position
R1 R2
6,3’,5’-trimethoxy-3,5,7-4’-tetrahydroxyflavone OH OH
3,6,3’,5’-tetramethoxy-5,7,4’-trihydroxyflavone 7-glucoside OH glucoside
6,3’,5’-trimethoxy-3,5,7,4’-tetrahydroxyflavone 3-glucoside glucoside OH
Estrella-Parra et al.
Chemistry and biological activity of the Tillandsia L. genus
Boletin Latinoamericano y del Caribe de Plantas Medicinales y Aromáticas/258
CONCLUSION
Tillandsia genus was used in ancient times as fiber in
pottery. Nowadays it is mainly used as ornamental and
as a medicinal remedy in Latin America. Also, as part
of the rituals in some communities, even too as raw
material for products of use to polish. Tillandsia genus
has economic importance in emerging markets as well
as is utilized in cosmetics products. From the chemical
point of view, more than 40 compounds in 24
Tillandsia species have been proposed, such as
cycloartane triterpenes and hydroxyflavones as
majoritarian metabolites. Several compounds have
been associated with biological activity: HMG as a
hypoglycemic agent, polyphenols as antiviral and
antioxidant properties, soyasaponin I and Cycloartane-
3,24,25-triol, as anticancer agents, among others.
Several compounds and extracts have been associated
with biological activities that are promissory for the
treatment of distinct disease conditions, like metabolic
syndrome, cancer, AIDS, mycosis, and other
infectious diseases. However, only around 10% of
Tillandsia species has been explored, which makes the
future of research for this genre promising. Tillandsia
genus exhibits cultural, economic and pharmacological
relevance, with good potential in many essential
aspects of the modern society.
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
We are grateful to the PRODEP-SEP Postdoctoral
Fellowship at UAM to EPEA (project number
14612857). The authors have declared no conflict of
interest.
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