Review on the phytochemistry and toxicological profiles of and .

BACKGROUND

and have over the years been among the most sought-after species in the treatment of ailments worldwide. This review provides categorized literature on the phytochemical and scientifically proven toxicological profiles of and to facilitate their exploitation in therapy.

MAIN BODY OF THE ABSTRACT

Original full-text research articles were searched in PubMed, ScienceDirect, Research gate, Google Scholar, and Wiley Online Library using specific phrases. Phenolic acids, flavonoids, tannins, and anthraquinones were the main phytochemical classes present in all the two species. Most of the phytochemical investigations and toxicity studies have been done on the leaves. and contain unique phytoconstituents including anthraquinones, flavonoids, tannins, sterols, alkaloids, and volatile oils. hydroalcoholic leaf extract showed a toxic effect on Kabir chicks at the highest doses. The methanolic, aqueous, and supercritical carbon dioxide extracts of leaf gel were associated with no toxic effects. The aqueous leaf extract of is well tolerated for short-term management of ailments but long-term administration may be associated with organ toxicity. Long-term administration of the preparations from leaves and roots was associated with toxic effects.

SHORT CONCLUSION

This review provides beneficial information about the phytochemistry and toxicity of and and their potential in the treatment of COVID-19 which up to date has no definite cure. Clinical trials need to be carried out to clearly understand the toxic effects of these species.