Avicennia officinalis L.: A Comprehensive Review of Its Ethnomedicinal Importance, Phytochemical Profile, Pharmacological Activities, and Future Therapeutic Prospects
C. Usha Sree, CES College of Pharmacy, Kurnool
DOI: https://doi.org/10.63712/bpsrj-v2i3p003
ABSTRACT:
Avicennia officinalis L. is a medicinal mangrove species widely distributed throughout tropical and subtropical coastal ecosystems. Traditionally, the plant has been utilized for the management of numerous ailments, including inflammatory disorders, diabetes, gastrointestinal diseases, skin infections, ulcers, rheumatism, and microbial infections. Increasing scientific interest in this species has led to extensive investigations into its phytochemical composition and pharmacological properties. Various plant parts, including leaves, bark, roots, fruits, and aerial roots, contain diverse bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, iridoid glycosides, terpenoids, triterpenoids, steroids, phenolic acids, tannins, and polyphenols. These phytochemicals contribute to a wide range of biological activities including antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, anticancer, antiulcer, antiviral, analgesic, antipyretic, neuroprotective, and hepatoprotective effects. In addition to its medicinal value, A. officinalis plays a significant ecological role in coastal protection and environmental remediation by accumulating heavy metals and supporting biodiversity. The plant also serves as a valuable source of endophytic microorganisms capable of producing novel therapeutic metabolites. This review critically summarizes current knowledge regarding the taxonomy, botanical characteristics, geographical distribution, traditional applications, phytochemistry, pharmacological activities, and environmental significance of A. officinalis. Furthermore, existing research gaps and future opportunities for phytochemical isolation, molecular investigations, preclinical evaluation, and clinical validation are highlighted. Continued multidisciplinary research may facilitate the development of standardized herbal formulations and novel drug candidates derived from this important mangrove species.