Ethnobotanical, Phyto-pharmacological, and Bio-economic Prospects of Phyllostachys edulis (Carrière) J.Houz.: Review of Recent Advances.

Abstract

Background: Phyllostachys edulis (Carrière) J.Houz. (Moso bamboo) has historically been recognised as a structural timber resource ("Green Gold"), overshadowing its significant potential as a reservoir of therapeutic bioactive compounds. This review aims to thoroughly integrate current knowledge on phytochemistry, pharmacological mechanisms of action, safety issues, and agricultural and industrial aspects to identify future research areas.

Methods: The literature search was conducted across five major databases (PubMed, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar, ResearchGate, and Semantic Scholar) covering the period from January 2019 to December 2025. Following rigorous screening of 630 initial records, 101 primary studies that met strict inclusion criteria for phytochemical characterisation and molecular pharmacology were synthesised. Important articles published before 2019 were included to provide essential background and context.

Results: Phytochemical analysis reveals a unique radial metabolite gradient, dominated by stable flavone C-glycosides (isoorientin, vitexin) and immunomodulatory polysaccharides (BSDF-1). Mechanistic evidence supports their efficacy in regulating metabolic syndrome via the PI3K/Akt signalling axis and in mitigating chronic inflammation by suppressing the NLRP3 inflammasome. Additionally, novel sterol derivatives isolated from shoot residues exhibit significant cytotoxicity against the MCF-7 breast cancer cell line.

Discussion: Clinical translation is currently impeded by the poor oral bioavailability of Cglycosides and the species' capacity for heavy metal bioaccumulation (Pb, Cd) in polluted soils.

Conclusion: P. edulis represents a validated therapeutic bioresource with distinct advantages in metabolic and neuroprotective interventions. Future utilisation must prioritise the development of nano-delivery systems to overcome bioavailability barriers, the implementation of rigorous heavy metal monitoring to ensure safety within a circular bioeconomy, and well-designed clinical studies, pharmacokinetic optimisation, standardisation of bioactive constituents, and advanced drugdelivery strategies to facilitate clinical translation.