Phytochemical Diversity, Bioactivity and Bioeconomic Potential of Selected Woody Flora from the Karditsa Region (Central Greece): A Comprehensive Review

Abstract

The Karditsa region of Central Greece hosts a rich diversity of woody plant species that represent valuable sources of bioactive phytochemicals with significant ecological, nutritional, and industrial importance. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the phytochemical composition, biological activities, and bioeconomic potential of five selected woody species occurring in the region, namely Rosa canina, Cornus mas, Rubus fruticosus, Prunus spinosa, and Satureja montana. Particular emphasis is placed on the occurrence of phenolic compounds, flavonoids, anthocyanins, tannins, terpenoids, and essential oils, which are responsible for a wide range of biological activities, including antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective effects. Current extraction technologies and analytical approaches used for the recovery and characterization of these bioactive compounds are also discussed, highlighting recent advances in green and sustainable extraction methods. Furthermore, the potential applications of these plant-derived metabolites in functional foods, nutraceuticals, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and other bio-based products are critically evaluated. Finally, the review discusses the importance of conserving regional plant biodiversity while promoting the sustainable utilization of natural resources through environmentally responsible valorization strategies. By integrating available phytochemical, biological, and applied research, this review provides an updated synthesis of the scientific evidence and identifies future research directions for the sustainable exploitation of selected woody flora from the Karditsa region.