Botanical properties, traditional use, pharmacological activities, and potential therapeutic applications of phytochemicals derived from Cussonia species

Abstract

Background

Cussonia (Araliaceae) species characterized by thick woody stems and umbrella-like canopies encompasses various species native to Africa and used in folk medicine for diverse therapeutic properties. This review highlights Cussonia’s botanical features, diverse therapeutic uses of extracts and phytochemicals derived.

Methods

This systematic literature search on Cussonia species, using major databases like Biodiversity, Google Scholar, PubMed, Science direct, Springer and Web of Science until August 2024, identified studies on their botanical properties, traditional uses, phytochemicals including Phenolic compounds, Terpenoid, Flavonoid, Tannin and Alkaloid, and pharmacological activities. Data were systematically extracted, organized, and synthesized.

Results

The diverse pharmacological profiles of over 100 compounds isolated from 30 Cussonia species highlight their significant therapeutic potential, making them promising candidates for the development of novel antibiotics, management of chronic diseases related to oxidative stress and inflammation, diabetes treatment, and adjunctive cancer therapies. However, the challenges faced are chemical variability, standardization, and sustainability concerns. Moreover, a lack of toxicity studies and clinical trials were observed with only information regarding the mechanisms of action for almost all extracts and compounds of the Cussonia genus present.

Conclusion

Cussonia species crude extract and isolated compounds have shown therapeutic potential for managing diseases, including antioxidant, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects.