Abstract

Culén is the popular term used in Chile for the only endemic species of the Fabaceae family, Psoralea glandulosa Linn. It is one of the most widely used medicinal plants in Chile and in some regions of South America, not only as a home remedy, but also recommended by medicine and widely used in the gastronomic industry. Many properties are known, supported by biological tests both in vitro and in vivo. Because it is so highly appreciated, it is included in the book "Medicamentos Herbarios Tradicionales" (Traditional Herbal Medicines) of the Chilean Ministry of Health. Given the great interest in this plant since time immemorial, this review contains information on its history, popular uses and scientific studies, for a better knowledge, management and sustainable care of this Chilean natural resource.