A Comprehensive Review of the Medicinal and Pharmacological Importance and Future Perspectives of Monotheca buxifolia

Abstract

Monotheca buxifolia (M. buxifolia) a valued plant in traditional medicine, has attracted considerable scientific interest for its remarkable therapeutic potential. This review presents a comprehensive account of the plant’s pharmacological activities and phytochemical profile. Extensive studies reveal that M. buxifolia exhibits a broad spectrum of pharmacological properties, including antioxidant, antinociceptive, antimicrobial, antifungal, antileishmanial, antipyretic, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, antimalarial, anti-arthritic, and renal-protective effects. Its strong antioxidant activity is largely attributed to a rich array of phytochemicals such as flavonoids, alkaloids, saponins, terpenoids, and anthraquinones, which effectively scavenge free radicals and mitigate oxidative stress, thereby safeguarding against numerous diseases. Flavonoids and alkaloids contribute significantly to the plant’s antinociceptive and analgesic effects, highlighting its promise in pain management. Moreover, M. buxifolia exhibits potent antimicrobial and antifungal activities, underscoring its potential as a natural remedy for infectious diseases. Its hepatoprotective benefits, primarily due to saponins and flavonoids, further enhance its therapeutic value, as do its anti-inflammatory and antipyretic actions. Notably, the plant shows promising antimalarial and anti-arthritic effects and offers protective benefits against renal toxicity. Given its diverse and potent phytochemical composition, M. buxifolia stands out as a compelling candidate for the development of novel natural therapeutics targeting a wide range of health conditions.