Unlocking the therapeutic treasure of pomegranate leaf: A comprehensive review on phytochemical compounds, health benefits, and future prospects.

The exploration of sustainable and valuable by-products from industrial and agricultural processes is increasingly recognized for its economic, environmental and health advantages. This review examines the phytochemical constituents, biological properties, current applications and future directions of pomegranate ( L.) leaf (PGL). PGL exhibits broad biological activities, aiding in managing health conditions like chronic diseases, cancer, diabetes, obesity, and neurological disorders. Anti-cancer and anti-diabetic effects are demonstrated and using animal models. Anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties are also observed in cell cultures and animal studies. Its anti-microbial properties show efficacy against pathogens. However, variability in phytochemical composition due to different extraction methods and environmental conditions poses challenges for standardization. The review underscores the urgent need for comprehensive human clinical trials to confirm PGL's therapeutic benefits and safety, calling for future research to fully harness PGL's potential as a sustainable and bioactive compound in various industrial applications.