Garcinia livingstonei T. Anderson (Clusiaceae): A comprehensive review of traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology and toxicity

Abstract

Garcinia livingstonei T. Anderson, also referred to as African or Lowveld mangosteen, is a medicinal plant belonging to the Clusiaceae family and is used in traditional medicine to treat variety of diseases including diabetes, parasitic infections, microbial infections, and other ailments. This review provides an overview of this medicinal plant by highlighting its traditional applications, phytochemical properties, pharmacological activities, and toxicity, in addition to offering guidance for future G. livingstonei studies. These bioactivities include antimicrobial, antioxidant, antiparasitic, antiviral, and antiproliferative activities. The findings of this work reveal that the pharmacological activities of G. livingstonei crude extracts and bioactive compounds confirm the diversified use, and the effectiveness of G. livingstonei leaves, stem, bark, and fruits in the traditional remedies of many diseases. To date, about 38 secondary metabolites have been isolated from the different parts of this plant, with xanthones and biflavonoids being particularly prominent. Pharmacological and chemical research suggests that G. livingstonei contains a variety of bioactive compounds, which is worthy of comprehensive and in-depth research. Nevertheless, animal toxicological examinations and efficacy studies are still required to conclusively validate the traditional uses and in vitro pharmacological activities.