Structural characterization of bioactive compounds in Cotula cinerea extracts by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography with photodiode array and high-resolution time-of-flight mass spectrometry detectors.

This study proposed a practical strategy for rapidly screening and identifying secondary metabolites of Cotula cinerea and provided new information on the phytochemicals of this Saharan plant. This work has therefore provided useful results for further pharmacological studies and the design of new drugs based on this species and will facilitate the utilization of Cotula cinerea in the clinic and its safety evaluation. It is also hoped that the information presented here might stimulate further studies that will possibly lead to development of therapeutic agents from this plant.