A review on phytochemistry of Paederia foetida Linn

Abstract

Introduction: Paederia foetida Linn. is a widespread plant of the Rubiaceae family distributed in temperate and tropical Asia. The plant has a distinct characteristic of emitting a strong and sulfurous odor on crushing and bruising of its leaves or stems. It has a long history of usage in Chinese, Ayurvedic, and other traditional systems of medicine for numerous ailments. The present review aims to compile its phytochemistry and to discuss its prospect in pharmacological applications. Methods: References relevant to this review were retrieved using SciFinder, PubMed, and Google Scholar till November 2022. Particularly published articles, books, and conference proceedings were covered and no unpublished data is included. Phytochemistry, secondary metabolites, chemical components, biological activity, pharmacology, ethnopharmacology, traditional medicinal applications, and compounds isolated from Paederia foetida Linn. are among the terms utilized. Results: In various studies, extracts, fractions as well as isolated compounds from various parts of this plant have shown potential activity to treat a variety of diseases like pain, inflammation, arthritis, diabetes, antimicrobial, etc. It has been found to contain numerous bioactive phytochemicals, primarily iridoid glycosides, flavone glycosides, anthraquinones, and terpenoids. Discussion/Conclusions: Exploring the phytochemical diversity and therapeutic potential of the plant will reveal fresh insight into new perspectives in the treatment of various disorders and opens up new paths for further investigation. This will in turn help to understand the underlying principle of its rich traditional uses and its relation with modern pharmacology.

Keywords

• Paederia foetida
• Phytoconstituents
• Pharmacological activities