Botanical description, phytochemistry, traditional uses, and pharmacology of Crataeva nurvala Buch. Ham.: an updated review

Abstract

Background Crataeva nurvala Buch. Ham., an important medicinal plant of the Capparidaceae family, is widely distributed in India and tropical and subtropical parts of the world. It has been reported for its folkloric use in various disorders such as blood purifier, breathing problems, fever, metabolic disorders, wound healing, memory loss, and weak immune system. Results The present review has focused on the botanical description and ethnomedicinal and traditional uses of C. nurvala along with its reported pharmacological activities. Chief chemical constituents and pharmacological aspects of C. nurvala have been deeply explored to unravel the unexplored folklore/ethnomedicinal uses of this plant so that the researchers working on this plant may be able to find new insights to continue further investigation on this plant. The pharmacological aspects like anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, anti-nociceptive, anti-diarrheal, anti-fertility, anti-pyretic, and anti-cancer potentials evaluated by various in vitro/in vivo methods on this plant have been reported. Conclusion Various traditional uses have been reported that need to be scientifically investigated in depth and several pharmacological activities have been reported for the C. nurvala, but more detailed and mechanism-based studies linked to a particular lead compound need to be targeted in the future. Moreover, this plant has not been completely assessed on the basis of its safety and efficacy on humans. It is expected that this review will compile and improve the existing knowledge on the potential utilization of C. nurvala in complementary and alternative medicine.

Crataeva nurvala Bark (Capparidaceae) Extract Modulates Oxidative Stress‐Related Gene Expression, Restores Antioxidant Enzymes, and Prevents Oxidative Stress in the Kidney and Heart of 2K1C Rats

“…This response is also comparable to ramipril, which is an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor, treatment in 2K1C rats. Other reports also showed that the Crataeva nurvala bark extract possesses lupeol [ 54 ] which may exert cardiac protective activity against oxidative stress induced by cyclophosphamide [ 55 ].…”

Development of Anti-Inflammatory Drug from Crataeva Nurvala: In Silico and In Vitro Approach

“…The bark, roots, leaves, and fruits of the Varuna tree are used to prepare decoctions, infusions, and herbal formulations to address a spectrum of health conditions. [ 5 ]…”