Mangifera indica and Mangifera zeylanica: Perspectives on medicinal properties, therapeutic applications and potential uses as anticancer epigenetic drugs (Review)

Abstract

Among the different types of mango species, Mangifera indica (MI) and Mangifera zeylanica (MZ) are well known for their therapeutic potential. MI is a pharmacologically and phytochemically diverse plant. Extracts prepared from different parts (bark, leaves, roots, seeds, flowers and fruits) of MI and major mango phytochemicals have been reported to exert a range of pharmacological effects. MZ is a plant endemic to Sri Lanka. The bark of MZ has been used in the Sri Lankan traditional medicine for the treatment of various ailments and conditions, including cancer. Recently, substantial efforts have been made to provide a scientific validation for its traditional use in the treatment of cancer. The present review article describes the pharmacological activities, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anticancer, anti-microbial, anti-diabetic and anti-obesity properties of MI. Furthermore, the anticancer potential of MZ bark extracts and information on compounds isolated from MZ and their bio-activities are also described. The effects of major Mangifera compounds on epigenetic modifications have been widely studied. Therefore, the ability of Mangifera compounds to function as epigenetic drugs in the context of cancer drug discovery has become a promising area of investigation. However, an assessment of the clinical efficacy, and potential adverse and toxic effects of mango extracts is essential prior to their use in clinical practice.