Ethnopharmacological uses, phytochemistry, biological activities of Debregeasia salicifolia: A review

Abstract

Ethnopharmacological relevance: Debregeasia salicifolia Rendle (DS) is used traditionally for the treatment of several diseases including; urinary system diseases, bone fractures, boils, diarrhea accompanied with blood, carbuncles, pimples, dermatitis, skin rash, eczema, and tumors. Additionally, it is used as an antiseptic and antifungal agent.

Aim of the study: To document up to date information regarding D. salicifolia and link the traditional uses with its reported pharmacological evidences. The review covers taxonomy, distribution, traditional uses, active phytochemical constituents and pharmacological activities for DS.

Materials and methods: The electronic databases such as Google Scholar, E-Resource Portal of Imam Abdulrahman bin Faisal University, Scopus, PubMed, Springer Link, etc. as well as textbooks were used to gather all relevant information about DS.

Results: Ethnomedicinal studies revealed a wide use of DS for various traditional purposes in the south Asian community. The uses for diarrhea, cancer, urinary complaints and skin diseases were supported by pharmacological studies. In-vitro pharmacological studies confirmed its therapeutic activities e.g. antimicrobial, anticancer, and antioxidant. Moreover, analgesic and anti-diarrheal activities were also established in animal's in-vivo activities. Despite enormous literature regarding DS, the main focus of research and interest was antimicrobial and cytotoxic activities. Quantitative and qualitative phytochemical analysis proved the presence of various classes of phytochemicals in DS extract; triterpenes, phytosterols, tannins, flavonoids and anthraquinone.

Conclusion: Though most of the traditional uses for the plant were supported by in-vitro and in-vivo pharmacological studies, however lack of clinical trials and shortage of in-depth mechanistic in-vivo studies was noted in the review. Hence, more elaborative in-vivo studies with quality clinical trials may be focused in order to confirm the safety and efficacy of reported activities in humans which will help explore the plant's therapeutic potentials.

Keywords: Debregeasia salicifolia; Ethnopharmacology; Folk medicine; Phytochemistry; Traditional uses; Triterpenes; Urticaceae.