An Insight into the Ethnopharmacology and Pharmacological Properties of Calliandra portoricensis (Jacq) Benth Fabaceae
Martha Nneoma Ofokansi*and Peter Achunike Akah
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of
Nigeria, Nsukka
| Key words:
Calliandra portoricensis, phytochemistry, pharmacology, anticancer, anticonvulsant, antisickling
*Corresponding author: Martha. ofokansi@unn. edu. ng; Page No: 54-59 |
AbstractCalliandra portoricensis, a perennial shrub of the Fabaceae family, has long been acknowledged for its numerous traditional medicinal applications in various cultures. Its substantial therapeutic potential is underscored by ethnomedical reports documenting its use in the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders, respiratory conditions, inflammation, and parasitic infections. Phytochemical investigations have revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, and other bioactive compounds, which serve as the basis for its pharmacological efficacy. Their value in drug discovery and development is underscored by biological studies that have confirmed their broad-spectrum pharmacological activities, including anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, antidiabetic, and anticancer properties. Nevertheless, toxicity assessments suggest that caution is warranted as specific extracts demonstrate dose-dependent toxic effects. This review synthesizes the current body of knowledge regarding the traditional uses, phytochemistry, and pharmacology of C. portoricensis, proposes future directions, and identifies research gaps to further its potential therapeutic applications.
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