Impact of Solvent Extractions and its Pharmacological Potential of Boerhavia diffusa L.: An Updated Review

Boerhavia diffusa L. (Punarnava) is a cornerstone of ancient Indian Medicine, historically valued as a Rasayana agent for rejuvenation and vitality. This review provides a comprehensive and comparative analysis of the various pharmacological activities of the whole plant, particularly, the effects of the various solvent-based extraction methods (aqueous, methanol, ethanol) influencing its phytochemical yield and therapeutic efficacy. We have critically reviewed several preclinical and translational studies to summarize the phytoconstituents, correlate solvent-dependent extracts with bioactivities, and discuss the modern pharmacological relevance of B. diffusa in complex chronic diseases (diabetes, inflammation, hepatic/renal dysfunction, cardiovascular disorders, and cancer). Results confirm that B. diffusa acts by synergistic mechanisms mediated by the essential bioactive compounds (punarnavine, a family of rotenoids (boeravinones A-J), flavonoids (kaempferol, and quercetin), and ecdysteroids). Extraction solvent selection is essential, as methanol extracts consistently exhibited superior yield and antioxidant capacity, reporting the highest levels of phenolic and flavonoid compounds compared to aqueous. Its anti-inflammatory properties (Shothahara) are explained by the ability of punarnavine to inhibit inflammatory cytokines (TNF- α, IL-1b, IL-6), and its strong hepatoprotective effect (Yakrit uttejak) is attributed to restoring antioxidant enzymes and mitigating lipid peroxidation. Furthermore, B. diffusa revealed multi-target efficacy (as a potent antidiabetic agent, a neuroprotectant, and an anticancerous agent). In conclusion, the remarkable bioactivity and chemical diversity of B. diffusa positions it as a powerful lead to generate novel therapeutic development and holistic care applications.