<p><i>Dioscorea bulbifera</i> L., commonly known as ‘air potato’, is a medicinal plant with a rich history of traditional use in various indigenous healing practices. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the phytochemistry and ethnopharmacology of <i>D. bulbifera</i>, highlighting its therapeutic potential and the scientific basis behind its traditional medicinal applications. The phytochemical composition of <i>D. bulbifera</i> is diverse, encompassing various classes of secondary metabolites such as alkaloids, saponins, flavonoids, steroids and glycosides. These bioactive compounds contribute to the plant’s pharmacological properties, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial and anticancer activities. The presence of diosgenin, a steroidal saponin, is particularly noteworthy as it has been extensively studied for its potential as a precursor in the synthesis of pharmaceutical steroids. The ethnopharmacological aspects of <i>D. bulbifera</i> are explored through an examination of traditional medicinal uses reported in different cultures. Indigenous communities have employed the plant for the treatment of diverse ailments, including skin disorders, respiratory problems, gastrointestinal issues and reproductive health conditions. The review highlights the importance of documenting and preserving traditional knowledge associated with <i>D. bulbifera</i> to enhance its integration into modern healthcare practices. Furthermore, it discusses recent scientific investigations and preclinical studies that provide insights into the pharmacological mechanisms underlying the medicinal properties of <i>D. bulbifera</i>. This includes its potential in managing chronic diseases, supporting wound healing, and serving as a source of novel therapeutic agents. In conclusion, <i>D. bulbifera</i> emerges as a valuable medicinal plant with a polyvalent pharmacological profile that makes it a potent source of nutraceuticals. The integration of traditional knowledge with contemporary scientific findings not only validates its ethnomedicinal applications but also opens avenues for the development of new therapeutic formulations. Further research is warranted to elucidate the role of specific bioactive compounds responsible for its various pharmacological effects and to optimize its utilization in modern healthcare systems.</p>

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Ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry, pharmacological insights and toxicity assessment of Dioscorea bulbifera L.: a comprehensive review

  • Kishan Kumar Prajapati,
  • Gunjan Pandey,
  • Vartika Pandey,
  • Rakesh Pandey,
  • V. N. Pandey

摘要

Dioscorea bulbifera L., commonly known as ‘air potato’, is a medicinal plant with a rich history of traditional use in various indigenous healing practices. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the phytochemistry and ethnopharmacology of D. bulbifera, highlighting its therapeutic potential and the scientific basis behind its traditional medicinal applications. The phytochemical composition of D. bulbifera is diverse, encompassing various classes of secondary metabolites such as alkaloids, saponins, flavonoids, steroids and glycosides. These bioactive compounds contribute to the plant’s pharmacological properties, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial and anticancer activities. The presence of diosgenin, a steroidal saponin, is particularly noteworthy as it has been extensively studied for its potential as a precursor in the synthesis of pharmaceutical steroids. The ethnopharmacological aspects of D. bulbifera are explored through an examination of traditional medicinal uses reported in different cultures. Indigenous communities have employed the plant for the treatment of diverse ailments, including skin disorders, respiratory problems, gastrointestinal issues and reproductive health conditions. The review highlights the importance of documenting and preserving traditional knowledge associated with D. bulbifera to enhance its integration into modern healthcare practices. Furthermore, it discusses recent scientific investigations and preclinical studies that provide insights into the pharmacological mechanisms underlying the medicinal properties of D. bulbifera. This includes its potential in managing chronic diseases, supporting wound healing, and serving as a source of novel therapeutic agents. In conclusion, D. bulbifera emerges as a valuable medicinal plant with a polyvalent pharmacological profile that makes it a potent source of nutraceuticals. The integration of traditional knowledge with contemporary scientific findings not only validates its ethnomedicinal applications but also opens avenues for the development of new therapeutic formulations. Further research is warranted to elucidate the role of specific bioactive compounds responsible for its various pharmacological effects and to optimize its utilization in modern healthcare systems.