SCOTS PINE (PINUS SYLVESTRIS L.): ANALYTICAL REVIEW OF LITERATURE

This article provides an analysis and generalization of data from literature sources concerning the distribution, chemical composition, and usage of Pinus sylvestris L. (Scots Pine) as a medicinal plant, and the possibilities of its cultivation. Presently, there are only a few products on the Ukrainian market based on or containing Scots Pine, indicating insufficient research from a pharmaceutical/medical perspective. The objective of this study is to review, analyze, and summarize information regarding the distribution, chemical composition, medicinal use of Pinus sylvestris L., and conditions for its cultivation. During the analysis of many literary sources, it was found that the raw materials (buds, needles, resin) of Scots pine contain a complex of biologically active substances, including essential oils, tannins, vitamins, organic acids, phenolic compounds, lignans, and flavonoids, which enable its utilization in traditional medicine as an antifungal, antibacterial, antitumor, antioxidant, and wound-healing agent. Scots pine is a promising source of raw materials for the development of medicinal products, has a sufficient raw material base and does not require specific conditions for cultivation. Based on this research and literature analysis regarding the distribution, chemical composition, cultivation conditions, and utilization of Pinus sylvestris L. as a medicinal resource, it can be concluded that Scots Pine readily adapts to various environmental conditions, making it an excellent candidate for cultivation and industrial growth not only in Ukraine but worldwide. The combination of these two factors makes Pinus silvestris L promising for use in pharmaceutical, medical, and other industries. Furthermore, considering the active use of various parts of Scots Pine in traditional medicine, further research and development of new medicinal preparations based on Pinus sylvestris L. are highly warranted.