The genus Cochlospermum Kunth: a comprehensive review of key species with a focus on botanical, pharmacological, and chemical atributes

Abstract

The Cochlospermum genus plant species are commonly used in traditional medicine for its antimicrobial, antiparasitic, anti-inflammatory, and hypoglycemic properties. The objective of this review is to describe the mainly important medicinal plant species of the genus Cochlospermum Kunth in terms of its botanical aspects, popular use, biological activity (pharmacology), and chemical compounds, intending to identify potential areas for innovative studies. The study considered literature published between 2010 - 2024 on the ethnobotany, pharmacology, botanical aspects, biological activity, and chemical compounds. Excluded from this study were eBooks, book chapters, patents, review articles, course completion articles, theses, and abstracts published in the proceedings of the event. Chem Draw software was used to draw a total of sixty-one bioactive compounds. The results show that six species of the Cochlospermum genus are documented as vital sources of traditional medicine. Ten species of this genus have been identified to contain secondary metabolites, including Cocholospermin A and B, polysaccharides, polyphenols (such as gallic and ellagic acids), flavonoids, and tannins. These compounds, such as polyphenols, flavonoids, and tannins, contribute to the pharmacological activities of this genus. The compounds in the Cochlospermum genus have demonstrated various biological activities, such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and potential antidiabetic properties. The genus has demonstrated some of these activities both in vitro and in vivo, making it of great pharmacological importance. This work presents a comprehensive overview of the botanical aspects, ethnopharmacology, biological activities, and chemical properties of the Cochlospermum genus. Its abundant chemical molecules can serve as an alternative source for the treatment of various diseases. This work provides a new perspective for future studies.