Spring snowflake (Leucojum vernum L.) and summer snowflake (L. aestivum L.): Chemical composition and uses in medicine

Snowflake genus (Leucojum L.) species currently have wide application as ornamental crops for the landscaping of gardens and parks. Previously, there were conducted several researches aimed at studying the composition of alkaloids as well as prospects for using these herbs as sources for medicines, in particular, containing galanthamine. This review shows systematical data on chemical composition (primarily, galanthamine and lycorine alkaloids) and medical application of two Snowflake species: spring snowflake (Leucojum vernum L.) and summer snowflake (Leucojum aestivum L.). There have also been considered issues concerning the standardization of medicinal plant raw material.