The Amaranthaceae family includes many wild plants. Some are common weeds, others are under-utilised herbs. Researchers now recognise this family as a rich source of bioactive compounds.
A recent review found that wild Amaranthaceae species carry large amounts of flavonoids, alkaloids, terpenoids, phenolic compounds and sterols. These molecules help plants survive tough conditions. They also offer therapeutic potential.
Take Amaranthus viridis (green amaranth). It contains steroids, tannins, saponins, alkaloids and terpenoids. Its leaf extracts show strong phenolic content and antioxidant activity.
Another is Digera muricata. A review on this plant reports flavonoids, terpenoids, saponins, tannins, cardiac glycosides, and anthraquinones in its extracts. It has been studied for antimicrobial, antioxidant and anticancer activities.
Yet another plant, Aerva lanata, has flavonoids, triterpenes, steroids and saponins in its phytochemical profile. Ethnobotanical uses include liver protection, anti-inflammatory and diuretic effects.
These wild plants do not always get the research attention that cultivated medicinal plants receive. As a result many compounds may remain un-discovered or un-developed.
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Flavonoids, alkaloids, terpenoids, and potent antioxidants abound in these inconspicuous “weeds,” demonstrating that some of the most potent medicine goes unnoticed. 
Which understudied wild plant do you believe merits greater scientific study? Together, let’s discover nature’s pharmacy! 