A review on the secretory structures, bioactive compounds and biological activities of selected Combretum species

Species of Combretum are highly valued in Africa due to the plethora of traditional medicinal uses they may offer. Species such as Combretum molle, Combretum erythrophyllum, Combretum album, Combretum apiculatum, Combretum cafffrum and Combretum quadrangulare are commonly utilized and are known to contain medicinally important phytochemicals. Traditionally, they are used to treat bacterial infections, venereal diseases, abdominal pain, sores, infertility, and labour pains, while displaying, anti-viral, anti-parasitic, cytotoxic, and mutagenic activity. There have been numerous studies released on the presence, isolation and bioactivity of phytochemicals. However, the transformation of the isolate into a drug of pharmacological importance has yet to be appraised on a large scale. Therefore, further evaluation of this genus and particularly the transformation of the isolates needs to be explored. This review aimed to collate current and prudent information pertaining to the presence of secretory structures in relation to potential medicinal properties, ethnopharmacological applications and bioactive compounds present within selected Combretum species. (c) 2023 SAAB. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

Species of Combretum are highly valued in Africa for their traditional medicinal uses, with various commonly utilized species known for containing important phytochemicals. They are traditionally used to treat a range of ailments and have shown activity against bacteria, viruses, parasites, and cancer cells. Despite numerous studies on their phytochemicals, the transformation of these active compounds into pharmacological drugs still requires further exploration. This review aims to provide comprehensive information on the medicinal properties, traditional uses, and bioactive compounds of selected Combretum species. (c) 2023 SAAB. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.