A review on Indian traditional shrub Canthium coromandelicum: a unique medicinal plant

The identities and pharmacological activities of phytochemicals extracted from Canthium coromandelicum have been studied in recent decades. This review summarizes the plant’s distribution, botanical characteristics, traditional uses, chemical components, and biological activities, aiming to explore its therapeutic potential. Primary sources included electronic databases, with The Plant List and World Checklist of Vascular Plants 2023 providing scientific names and distribution information. Despite its potential, C. coromandelicum has received limited research attention. Previous studies have identified chemical compounds like phytol, 25-desacetoxy-Cucurbitacin B, n-Hexadecanoic acid, sitosterol, gallic acid, and quercetin. This review provides updated information on the phytochemistry, ethno-pharmaceutical uses, and pharmacology of C. coromandelicum. The literature confirms some traditional uses and highlights its notable pharmacological effects, particularly as a source of triterpenes like squalene. However, further studies are needed before considering clinical trials.