Insights into the Phytochemical Profile and Therapeutic Potential of Commelina benghalensis

Background: Syzygium aromaticum Linn. (clove) is a dried flower bud from the Myrtaceae family, native to Indonesia's Maluku islands. Clove essential oil is recognized for its diverse biological activities, including antiseptic, analgesic, antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, and anticancer properties. Its high concentration of bioactive compounds, particularly eugenol, caryophyllene, and eugenol acetate, contributes significantly to these effects, making clove a subject of increasing scientific interest. Methods: This review compiles and analyzes updated information on the ethnomedicinal uses, phytochemistry, and pharmacological activities of clove and its primary constituent, eugenol. A systematic literature review was conducted, focusing on peer-reviewed studies that detail the extraction methods, chemical composition, and bioactivity assays of clove essential oil. Results: Clove essential oil contains approximately 16-18% of essential oils, with eugenol constituting 59-88% of its composition. The oil exhibits notable antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antipyretic, anticancer, antidiabetic, and antiviral properties. Clove has shown efficacy against various pathogens, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, and Helicobacter pylori. Furthermore, eugenol demonstrated significant cytotoxic effects against various cancer cell lines and showed promise in managing metabolic disorders and enhancing immune responses. Conclusion: Clove and eugenol possess extensive therapeutic potential, warranting further investigation to unlock their applications in modern medicine. Despite their benefits, attention to their toxicity and safety profiles is essential for ensuring appropriate usage in therapeutic contexts. This review highlights the need for continued research to validate traditional uses and explore novel applications of clove and its bioactive components.

Each year, tons of weeds are burned or allowed to dry throughout the world. Despite folklore claims that Commelina benghalensis can treat leprosy, fever, snake bites, jaundice, sore throats, headaches, and constipation in both humans and animals, the ubiquitous Indian plant always dies the same way every year. By creating a formulation based on the evaluation of its potential ethnomedicinal properties, the current work attempts to utilize this weed. The complete plant was extracted once at a time using solvents with increasing polarity. Each extract’s anti-ulcer and laxative efficacy was investigated using appropriate animal models. The ethnomedicinal claims of the plant were supported by the discovery that the methanolic extract was the most bioactive, followed by the aqueous extract. Important classes of phytoconstituents such as phenolics, alkaloids, saponins, steroids&triterpenoids, flavonoids, and carbohydrates were found by phytochemical screening. From the purified fraction of the most bioactive extract, many chemicals, including stigmasterol and β-sitosterol, were discovered using GC-MS. Using TLC experiments and HPTLC, a chromatographic fingerprint was created. Effervescent granules of the methanolic extract were created and tested on animal models in order to bring the research to the public for their benefit. They were found to be effective as an anti-ulcer and laxative, which was compatible with our goal to create a “Best from Waste” product.

Chapter 11 - Commelina benghalensis

In recent years, drugs from natural sources are becoming important owing to their potency and less toxicity. Natural products from marine microorganisms and marine algae are one of the highly explored areas in natural product research. Plenty of marine natural product being isolated and is showing a wide array of biological activity. The present review focuses on pharmaceutically important marine natural products isolated from different microorganisms, marine invertebrates, variety of algae, and their application in modern medicine.

Plants have played a significant role in maintaining human health and improving the quality of human life. Coccinia grandis, commonly known as ivy gourd or kundru, is a tropical vine belonging to the Cucurbitaceae family. It is widely distributed in tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, Africa, and Australia. Studies shows that the plant part extract possess a lot of medicinal properties like antidiabetic, antioxidant, Larvicadal, Cooling effect to the eye, Gonorrhea, Hypolipidemic, Skin diseases, Urinary tract infection Hypoglycemic, Cure sores on tongue, Analgesic, Antipyretic, Hepatoprotective, Tuberculosis, Eczema. Anti-inflammatory, Antispasmodic, Asthma, Bronchitis, GIT disturbances and many more.this review highlight that every part of coccinia grandis possess a great activities and are valuable as medicine. This review gives different insight on the phytochemistry of coccinia grandis it pharmacological applications in modern medicine and how coccinia grandis different plant part is so important and very useful in the treatment of various aliments

Kaempferia rotunda L., also known as kunci pepet, is a local herbal plant with global potential traditionally used in various medicinal practices across Southeast Asia. This review summarizes the ethnobotanical, phytochemical, and pharmacological aspects of Kaempferia rotunda L., to explore its applications in modern medicine. Ethnobotanically, its rhizome has been widely utilized for treating digestive disorders, inflammation, and wound healing. Phytochemical studies reveal that Kaempferia rotunda L., contains flavonoids, alkaloids, phenols, and terpenoids, contributing to its biological activities. Several studies have demonstrated significant anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antioxidant, and anticancer properties. With the increasing demand for natural-based therapies, further exploration of their active compounds and mechanisms of action is highly relevant. This review aims to provide a broader insight into the pharmaceutical potential of Kaempferia rotunda L., and encourage further research for the development of evidence-based herbal medicine.

Bala (Sida cordifolia Linn.), a prominent herb in Ayurveda, has been utilized for centuries for its diverse therapeutic benefits. Sida cordifolia belongs to the Malvaceae family and is recognized for its wide-ranging medicinal properties, documented in ancient texts such as the Vedas, Samhitas and Nighantus. Various parts of the plant, including roots, leaves, and seeds, contain bioactive compounds such as alkaloids, fatty oils, steroids, and ephedrine, contributing to its medicinal effects. The drug is attributed Balya, Kantikaraka, Grahi, Vrishya, Ojovardhaka, Stambhana, Brihmana, Shothahara and Hridya properties in different Ayurvedic Classical texts. The plant's pharmacological activities, including anti-inflammatory, analgesic, hypoglycemic, antimicrobial, and anticancer properties, are supported by scientific research. The aim of this study is to systematically review the scientific literature on the effects of Bala (Sida cordifolia) and to consolidate botanical, traditional, and modern pharmacological insights to provide a comprehensive understanding of its therapeutic potential. This research could pave the way for innovative applications in modern medicine, emphasizing its significance in developing effective, natural, and sustainable treatments for various diseases.

Sesamum indicum (sesame) is a globally valued oilseed crop renowned for its exceptional nutritional and bioactive properties. Despite extensive research on sesame, a comprehensive synthesis of its phytochemical diversity, molecular mechanisms, and therapeutic potential remains necessary, particularly given emerging evidence on its unique lignans, biological effects, and applications in modern medicine. This review systematically consolidates current knowledge on sesame's botanical traits, bioactive composition, and health benefits by analyzing studies from various databases. Sesame seeds contain 50-60% oil (predominantly oleic [18:1, ~40%] and linoleic acids [18:2, ~45%]), 18-25% high-quality protein, 1.5-3% lignans (including sesamin and sesamolin), 0.5-1.5% phytosterols, and essential minerals (calcium: 975 mg/100 g; magnesium: 351 mg/100 g; iron: 14.6 mg/100 g). Its distinctive bioactive compounds-such as lignans (e.g., sesamol, sesaminol), phenylethanoid glycosides, and root-specific quinones-contribute to oxidative stability and diverse pharmacological effects, including cardioprotection, neuroprotection, and anticancer activity. Mechanistically, sesame exhibits antioxidant effects via Nrf2 activation, anticancer properties through apoptosis induction, and antimicrobial actions supported by molecular docking studies (e.g., anti- COVID-19 potential). While preclinical studies highlight its safety, its emergence as a major allergen warrants clear labelling. Future research should focus on enhancing the bioavailability of bioactive compounds, validating clinical efficacy, and leveraging byproducts for sustainable applications. This review underscores sesame's underexplored therapeutic potential and provides a foundation for future translational studies.

BackgroundThe integration of Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy (AYUSH) with modern medicine aims to provide a more personalized and effective approach to healthcare. Ayurveda is a traditional medicine system in India that emphasizes the balance between mind, body, and spirit. It is based on the belief that every individual is unique and requires personalized treatment. The fundamental principles of Ayurveda revolve around maintaining equilibrium among three doshas: Vata (air and space), Pitta (fire and water), and Kapha (earth and water). Imbalances in these doshas are believed to cause diseases.Main body of the abstractThe integration of Ayurveda with modern medicine seeks to utilize the best of both systems, focusing on using natural remedies and treatments that have been used for centuries in Ayurveda. The integration involves combining the strengths of both systems, including the use of Ayurvedic principles in modern medicine and the incorporation of modern medicine into Ayurvedic practices. Several studies have explored the efficacy of Ayurvedic treatments for various diseases, and the integration of Ayurvedic principles into modern medicine can provide a more comprehensive approach to patient care.Short conclusionAyurveda is a traditional medical system deeply rooted in Indian culture that offers a holistic approach to healthcare. Its principles emphasize personalized treatment based on an individual's constitution. Integrating Ayurveda with modern medicine can enhance patient care by providing a more comprehensive approach towards health management. However, challenges exist regarding the standardization of Ayurvedic practices due to variations in formulations and the need for more scientific evidence for some treatments. Further studies are needed for validation purposes.

The objective of the study was to make a survey of wetland medicinal plants in the Western Highlands of Cameroon. Eighteen (18) wetlands in four divisions namely Penka-Michel (Menoua division), Batcham (Bamboutos division), Bassap- Bafang (Haut-Nkam division) and Foumban (Noun division) were visited between the months of May and August 2015. Semi-structured interviews were conducted among 38 traditional practitioners and herbalists. Eighteen transects of 1 m × 10 m (10 m²) were established to study the phytosociology of wetland medicinal macrophytes with other associated plants. In each transect, 10 quadrats of 1 m x 1 m were traced in which all plant species including medicinal plants were inventored and counted. A total of 82 wetland macrophytes of medicinal importance grouped into 64 genera and 40 families were documented to treat over 74 different ailments. The most frequent family was the Asteraceae with the highest number of genera (7) followed by Fabaceae and Poaceae with 4 genera each. The most cited plant species were Emilia coccinea (Sims) G. Don, Commelina benghalensis L. and Coccinia barteri (Hook.f.) Keay. Emilia coccinea (Sims) G. Don alone is used for treating 14 ailments while Commelina benghalensis L. and Coccinia barteri (Hook.f.) Keay were used to treat 5 and 4 ailments respectively. The most regularly used plant part was the leaves (55.75 %) followed by whole or entire plant (24.54 %) for treating several diseases such as palpitation, skin diseases, digestive problems, dysentary, influenza, infertility, boil, sore throat, sexual impotence and kidney problems among others. The wetlands in the Western Highlands of Cameroon are rich in medicinal macrophyte species which are used as food or food products for traditional health care.Keywords: Ethnobotany, wetlands, medicinal macrophytes, Infertility, Western Highlands of Cameroon

Zingiber Mill. is the second-largest genus of the Zingiberaceae family. The members of this genus are known for their diverse applications in food, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and healthcare fields due to their richness in bioactive components found in essential oils (EOs). This study aims to provide information about EOs’ chemical composition and biological activities from 23 Zingiber species. A literature survey was performed via scientific databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and ethnobotanical textbooks. Clustering analysis was conducted using the Unweighted Pair Group Method with Arithmetic Mean (UPGMA) to construct phylogenetic trees. Various studies have revealed that β -pinene, α -pinene, β -caryophyllene, β -elemene, bicyclogermacrene, sabinene, camphene, linalool, ( E )-nerolidol, terpinen-4-ol, 1,8-cineole, humulane-1,6-dien-3-ol, β -phellandrene, and zerumbone are representative ingredients of 23 Zingiber EOs. Pharmacologically, the current results have recorded several Zingiber species related to antioxidant ( Z. plicatum ), antimicrobial ( Z. rubens , Z. castaneum , Z. nitens , Z. tamii , Z. magang , Z. densissimum , Z. cornubracteatum , Z. nudicarpum , Z. ottensii , Z. recurvatum , Z. vuquangense , Z. eberhardtii , and Z. skornickovae ), anti-larvicidal ( Z. castaneum , Z. mekongense , Z. nitens , Z. ottensii , Z. neotruncatum , Z. cornubracteatum , Z. nudicarpum , Z. collinsii , and Z. recurvatum ), antidiabetic ( Z. atroporphyreus ), anticancer ( Z. ottensii ), and cytotoxic ( Z. rubens and Z. ottensii ) properties. Cluster analysis showed that Z. densissimum and Z. plicatum had the highest phytochemical similarity, followed by Z. mekongense and Z. vuquangense , and Z. cornubracteatum and Z. nudicarpum . Additionally, the dendrogram offers crucial insights into the phytochemical relationships among Zingiber species, highlighting the chemical similarities between leaves, stems, rhizomes, roots, inflorescences, and fruits. This is the first report to highlight the recent bioactivity assessments and summarize the EO components of different parts from 23 Zingiber species and their promising applications in modern medicine.

The genus Lindera consists of approximately 100 species that are widely distributed in tropical and subtropical areas throughout the world. It is represented by widely well-known medicinal and aromatic plants that produce various phytochemicals with potential pharmacological actions. This review attempts to summarize the information on the phytochemicals of Lindera species together with their biological properties. The data and information were collected via an electronic search engine which are Scopus, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar, PubMed, and SciFinder. Sesquiterpenes represent the major chemical compounds that have been characterised in Lindera species, as well as alkaloids, flavonoids, and phenolics. These compounds were shown to possess anticancer, antifibrotic, anti-inflammatory, antitumor, antioxidant, anti-arthritic, cytotoxic, antiallergic, and antihyperlipidemic properties. The outcome of these studies will further support the therapeutic potential of the genus Lindera and provide convincing evidence for its future clinical applications in modern medicine.

Phyllanthus amarus has been a cornerstone of traditional medicine in Africa, renowned for its hepatoprotective, antiviral, and antidiabetic properties. However, its therapeutic applications in modern medicine are limited by poor bioavailability due to challenges such as low solubility, rapid metabolism, and instability of its bioactive compounds. Addressing these limitations is essential for optimizing its pharmacological potential and enabling its broader integration into evidence-based healthcare systems. This review highlights various strategies to enhance the bioavailability of Phyllanthus amarus, including nanotechnology, phytosome technology, biopiperine supplementation, fermentation, and sustained-release formulations. These approaches not only improve solubility and absorption but also stabilize the herb’s phytochemicals, ensuring better therapeutic outcomes. Moreover, the review explores how bioavailability enhancement can transform Phyllanthus amarus into a standardized therapeutic agent, bridging the gap between traditional and modern medicine. Enhancing the bioavailability of Phyllanthus amarus has profound implications for healthcare in Africa. Improved formulations can amplify its therapeutic efficacy in traditional practices, while enabling its adoption in modern pharmacology through clinical validation and pharmaceutical-grade products. By addressing cost, accessibility, and regulatory challenges, these advancements can ensure that Phyllanthus amarus continues to be a vital, sustainable resource in addressing pressing health issues across the continent.

Electromagnetic radiation (EMR) has been successfully employed in modern medicine for many years. The medical community, however, often lacks in-depth knowledge concerning different types of radiation, their mechanisms of action and clinical applications. Our review offers a comprehensive overview of the biological action of ionizing radiation (IR) and non-ionizing radiation (NIR) and their applications in modern medicine. Chronic exposure to a high frequency electromagnetic field (EMF) as a potential public health risk is also discussed. Current literature on IR and NIR has been reviewed and grouped thematically. Biological effects of EMR depend on its physical properties. IR is a potentially lethal stream of high energy particles. NIR carries less energy. EMR can damage DNA directly or indirectly via reactive oxygen/nitrogen species. It has been, however, successfully used in oncology (radiotherapy), physiotherapy (microwaves), rheumatology and endocrinology. Effective communication and data transmission are possible thanks to radio-, micro- and infrared waves. Cybernetics and modern forms of communication have been instrumental in the development of telerehabilitation and telemedicine. Evidence for the detrimental effects of cell phones, the most common source of EMR, on the developing central nervous system is scarce, but concerns have been raised about their carcinogenicity. Modern medicine cannot function without IR and NIR. However, their potentially undesirable biological side effects need to be taken into account.

In various regions worldwide, especially in South Asia, the traditional use of the Kokum plant, scientifically known as Garcinia indica, has been prevalent for a long time. Kokum is recognized for its unique phytochemical composition, which includes anthocyanins, hydroxycitric acid, xanthochymol, ascorbic acid, and garcinol. Due to its antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties, Kokum is considered a valuable option for numerous medical purposes. The traditional use of kokum suggests that it has been an effective remedy for various ailments, and further research on microbiological targets and their potential applications in modern medicine or food preservation. Asthma is a substantial global health problem with increasing prevalence rates in many countries. Asthma prevalence in India had previously been estimated to be around 3% (30 million patients out of 300 million), with prevalence rates between 4% and 20% in children and 2.4% in individuals over the age of 15. It is expected to rise in the upcoming decades and is one of the main causes of illness and death in rural India. The aim of this study was to identify putative bioactive chemicals present in the kokum fruit and investigate their interactions with the Asthma proteins by molecular docking modelling. Anthocyanin had a docking score of -8.27 kcal/mol for 3rze, -8.28 kcal/mol for 7f61, and -6.31 kcal/mol for 7fy6. The consequence of Lipinski rule recommends that anthocyanin is the best curative drug for asthma. Docking results verify the application of anthocyanin as a potential and natural therapeutic agent to treat diseases. Further laboratory tests are necessary to confirm these experimental results, though.