Gynostemma pentaphyllum an immortal herb with promising therapeutic potential: a comprehensive review on its phytochemistry and pharmacological perspective

Gynostemma pentaphyllum belongs to the family Cucurbitaceae which is native to China where it is also termed an immortal herb. It is an emerging herb gaining fame for its rich phytochemistry. It is loaded with superior phytochemicals with immense therapeutic potential. The key phytochemicals include saponins and sterols. Saponins are a wide class of bioactive found in Gynostemma pentaphyllum and 100 different saponins have been reported to date by different researchers in this herb. Several sterols have been demonstrated in this plant including ergostanol, sitosterol and stigmasterol. All these bioactive substances possess superior therapeutic and pharmacological properties that have been investigated in different studies as presented in this comprehensive review. Taxonomic classification, botanical description, and geographical distribution are briefly covered in the first section of this review. In contrast, the phytochemistry, therapeutic properties, and pharmacological features of Gynostemma pentaphyllum are thoroughly explained in the second section.

Automated summary

Gynostemma pentaphyllum, also known as an immortal herb, belongs to the Cucurbitaceae family and is native to China. It has gained attention for its rich phytochemistry, particularly its saponins and sterols. This review provides a comprehensive overview of its taxonomic classification, botanical description, geographical distribution, and in-depth analysis of its therapeutic properties and pharmacological features.