Phytochemical and Pharmacological Potential of Pithecellobium dulce: A Review

Pithecellobium dulce (Roxb.) Benth is a medicinal plant that is commonly used in traditional medicine and its phytochemical profile has shown to contain numerous bioactive compounds which are characterized by the presence of high concentration of flavonoids (42-57 mg QE/g), phenolics (30-75 mg GAE/g), tannins, alkaloids, saponins, sterols and terpenoids. These ingredients together contribute to the wide phytochemical properties. Quantitative tests showed strong antioxidant activity (DPPH radical-scavenging activity of 70-85%, IC₅₀=18-42 µg/mL). The anti-inflammatory activity shows approximately 63% inhibition of protein denaturation, and antidiabetic shows about 40-68% inhibition of α-amylase. Neuroprotective studies show a reduction in oxidative stress and an increase in neuronal viability, and antimicrobial studies reveal 8-18 mm inhibition zones against standard pathogens. These results highlight the multi-targeted therapeutic effect of P. dulce, which could be mainly attributed to its phenolic and flavonoid-rich composition. However, although of great interest the available evidence is hampered by inconsistent extraction methods and a dearth of mechanistic and toxicological analysis. This review serves as a legitimate source of reference in favouring the upcoming phytopharmacological studies by compiling the authenticated scientific evidences.