Pharmacognostic Review on Thunbergia grandiflora Roxb.

(Family - Acanthaceae)

Anilkumar Aher, Sonali Gawali, Pranjal Jadhav*, Chetan Darade, Vaishnavi Kamble,

Suraj Kharat, Harshada Tamkhane

Department of Pharmacognosy, MVPs College of Pharmacy, Nashik 422002, Maharashtra, India.

*Corresponding Author E-mail: pranjaljadhav251@gmail.com

ABSTRACT:

Thunbergia grandiflora Roxb., commonly known as the blue trumpet vine or Bengal clock vine, is a fast-growing climber native to India and Southeast Asia. A member of the Acanthaceae family, it is widely appreciated for its vibrant blue flowers and lush foliage, making it a popular ornamental plant. This woody climber is characterized by its serrated, heart-shaped leaves and trumpet-shaped flowers, which bloom in clusters and attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Its robust growth habit makes it suitable for covering fences, trellises, and open spaces, providing both aesthetic and functional benefits like erosion control. The plant’s ecological significance is further enhanced by its ability to stabilize soil and attract pollinators, contributing to the surrounding ecosystem. Its shallow, fibrous root system ensures effective anchorage and nutrient absorption, while its seeds, dispersed by wind and water, facilitate propagation in diverse environments. Thriving in tropical and subtropical climates, T. grandiflora adapts to various soil types, although it prefers well-drained loamy or sandy soils. Beyond its ornamental value, T. grandiflora has therapeutic potential, attributed to its bioactive compounds. It contains alkaloids, flavonoids, glycosides, saponins, tannins, and phenolic compounds, all of which exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and potential anticancer properties. Specific constituents, such as quercetin and kaempferol, enhance its medicinal value by mitigating oxidative stress and inflammation. Saponins and essential oils, including terpenes like limonene, further contribute to its pharmacological relevance. The leaves and fruits play crucial roles in the plant’s lifecycle. The leaves, vital for photosynthesis, aid in rapid vegetative growth and enhance the plant’s capacity to cover extensive areas. The fruits, dry capsules containing seeds, ensure species proliferation through efficient dispersal mechanisms. Thunbergia grandiflora combines ecological importance, ornamental appeal, and medicinal potential, making it a versatile plant of interest for horticulture, environmental conservation, and pharmacological research. Further studies on its bioactive compounds could unlock its full therapeutic applications.

KEYWORDS: Thunbergia grandiflora, Bengal Clock Vine, Medicinal plant, Chemical constituents Pharmacological activities.

INTRODUCTION:

Introduction to Medicinal and Herbal Plants for Human Use:

Many cultures throughout the world utilized medicinal and herbal plants for ages due to their healing qualities. These plants are a natural source of compounds that can aid in the management, prevention, and treatment of a number of illnesses.^1,2Herbal medicine or phytotherapy, uses compounds obtained from plants to cure illnesses and promote health, is another name for the use of medicinal plants.

Historical context:

Evidence of the use of herbal therapy dates back thousands of years, making it one of the oldest medical practices. The Egyptians, Greeks, Chinese, and Indians were among the ancient societies that mostly relied on plants for their therapeutic needs. This knowledge developed over time and was recorded in books such as Dioscorides' De Materia Medica in ancient Greece, the Huangdi Neijing (Yellow Emperor's Classic of Medicine) in China, and Ayurvedic literature in India.^3,4

Many medications are still made from plant components today. For instance, the opium poppy is the source of the painkiller morphine, and chemicals in willow bark are the source of Aspirin.

Categories of Medicinal Plants:

· Adaptogens: These botanical substances assist the body in managing stress and restoring equilibrium. Illustrations are Ginseng and Ashwagandha.

· Antioxidants: These botanical substances shield cells from oxidative harm induced by free radicals. Illustrations are Green Tea and Turmeric.

· Anti-inflammatory: Plants that contain substances lessen inflammation are commonly utilized to address ailments such as arthritis. Illustrations are Ginger and Willow bark.⁵

· Antimicrobials: Certain botanical substances exhibit inherent antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal characteristics. Garlic and Echinacea are prominent examples.

· Digestive aids: Plants such as Peppermint and Chamomile are employed to calm the digestive system, easing symptoms like bloating, indigestion, and nausea.

· Relaxants and sleep aids: Certain herbs assist in lowering anxiety, fostering relaxation, and enhancing sleep quality. Illustrations are Lavender, Valerian root, and Passionflower.

· Immunomodulators: These plants boost or modulate the immune system. Illustrations are Elderberry and Astragalus.⁶

Common Medicinal Plants and Their Uses:

· Aloe Vera: Recognized for healing benefits, aloe vera is utilized to address skin burns, wounds, and rashes. Its gel possesses soothing and hydrating qualities.

· Turmeric: An effective anti-inflammatory herb, Turmeric includes Curcumin, proven to assist in the management of inflammatory ailments such as arthritis and may also aid in digestive wellness.

· Ginseng: Frequently employed to enhance energy levels and cognitive performance, ginseng is viewed as an adaptogen, helping the body cope with both physical and mental stress.

· Peppermint: Valued for calming effects on the digestive tract, peppermint is typically used to relieve nausea, bloating, and indigestion. It also has a slight analgesic effect, which makes it beneficial for headaches and muscle discomfort.

· Lavender: Recognized for relaxing properties, lavender is often utilized in aromatherapy to encourage tranquility, alleviate anxiety, and enhance sleep quality. It furthermore possesses mild antiseptic characteristics.

· Echinacea: Commonly used to fortify the immune system and ward off colds, Echinacea is thought to help diminish the intensity and duration of respiratory illnesses.

· Chamomile: This herb is utilized to soothe the nervous system, ease anxiety, and improve sleep quality. It also offers digestive advantages, proving effective for upset stomachs and indigestion.

· Garlic: Recognized for its strong antimicrobial properties, Garlic used to treat infections, reduce blood pressure, and enhance cardiovascular health.^7,8

Preparation Methods for Herbal Use:

Herbal plants can be used in various forms for medicinal purposes:

· Infusions: These are created by soaking dried herbs in hot water, akin to brewing tea. Herbs such as Chamomile and Peppermint are frequently enjoyed this way.

· Tinctures: Concentrated herbal extractions made by immersing the plant material in alcohol or another solvent. Tinctures are powerful and can be utilized for therapeutic purposes.

· Ointments and creams: These are topical formulations created from plant extracts, commonly employed to address skin issues, wounds, or inflammation.

· Capsules and tablets: Certain herbs, like Ginseng or Turmeric, are offered in supplement form for easy consumption.

· Essential oils: Derived from plants through distillation, essential oils like Lavender or Eucalyptus are utilized in aromatherapy or applied topically (with dilution).⁹

Health Benefits of Medicinal Plants:

· Natural Remedies: Numerous medicinal plants provide a substitute for pharmaceutical medications, typically resulting in fewer side effects. They may be utilized in preventive health measures and to alleviate mild ailments.

· Holistic Approach: Herbal medicine frequently encourages general well-being, concentrating on harmonizing the body and mind. It tackles not only the symptoms but also the fundamental causes of illness.

· Complementary Medicine: Herbal medicine can be utilized in conjunction with traditional treatments to enhance their efficacy or reduce side effects.¹⁰

Safety and Considerations:

While many herbal plants offer health benefits, they must be used with care:

· Dosage: In contrast to pharmaceuticals, the strength of herbal treatments can differ based on the method of preparation and consumption. Excess use or improper dosage might result in adverse effects.

· Drug Interactions: Certain herbs can interact with prescribed medications, may lessen their efficacy or lead to negative reactions.

· Quality and Source: It is crucial to obtain herbs from trusted suppliers to prevent contaminants or impurities in the products.¹¹

Thunbergia grandiflora:

Introduction:

Indigenous to India and Southeast Asia, Thunbergia grandiflora is a rapidly growing Vine from the Acanthaceae family. Celebrated for bright blue blossoms, it has both aesthetic and therapeutic applications. Its conventional uses and bioactive elements render it a topic of scientific exploration.

Fig No. 01: Thunbergia grandiflora

Plant Profile:

· Scientific Name: Thunbergia grandiflora Roxb.

· Common Names: Bengal clock vine, Blue trumpet vine

· Family: Acanthaceae

· Origin: India and Southeast Asia

· Features: Woody climber, large serrated leaves, trumpet-shaped blue flowers

Thunbergia grandiflora Roxb, often referred to as the blue trumpet vine or sky flower, is a decorative climbing plant with various remarkable attributes.¹² Presented below is a comprehensive description of main characteristics:

Characteristics of Thunbergia grandiflora:

Table 1. Characteristics of Thunbergia grandiflora

Aspects	Description
General Appearance	Thunbergia grandiflora is a rapidly growing, robust, and woody climbing plant. It can attain heights of 10 to 15 meters, using twisting stems to ascend fences, trellises, and other structures. Its thick growth habit makes it suitable for covering large spaces, providing both visual appeal and functional benefits like erosion prevention.
Flowers	Color: Blue to violet, with a prominent white or yellow throat. Size: 4-5 cm in diameter, broad overlapping petals. Shape: Tubular base expanding into a funnel-like form with five lobes; slightly wavy or crinkled petals. Arrangement: Grow in clusters or racemes at stem ends; individual blooms open successively for continuous color. Fragrance: Mild, pleasant aroma especially in early morning and evening, attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies.
Stem and Growth Habit	Structure: Flexible and woody stems; green when young, transitioning to brown and woody as they age. Climbing Habit: Twining stems or tendrils secure to supports, allowing the plant to cover extensive areas. Growth Rate: Vigorous growth makes it ideal for quick ground cover and decorative purposes on fences and trellises.
Root System	Structure: Fibrous and shallow. Function: Efficiently secures the plant to surfaces, absorbs water and nutrients, and requires minimal soil fertility.¹³
Leaves	Shape: Sizable, Ovate (egg-shaped) or heart-shaped (cordate) with a pointed tip. Slightly lobed or undulated edge. Dimension range from 10-20 cm in length and 5-12 cm in width. Color: Upper side- Shiny, dark green. Underside- Lighter, pale green or greyish. Glossy surface aids in efficient sunlight absorption. Veins: Clearly visible pinnate venation (central primary vein with smaller veins branching out on both sides.)Adds texture and durability to the leaves. Arrangement: Positioned alternately along the stem, growing in pairs or spirally. Optimizes sunlight exposures and supports climbing nature. Function: Essential for photosynthesis, providing energy for rapid growth. Aids in climbing and covering extensive areas by attaching to nearby structures. ¹⁴
Fruits and seeds	Type: Capsule: Dry, dehiscent (opens when mature) fruit that houses multiple seeds. Measures about 4-5 cm in length, cylindrical or elongated in form. Structure: Woody or papery texture. Green when immature, transitioning to brown or grey upon maturation. Opens to release several small, brown, flat seeds (oval-shaped). Seed Dispersal: Dispersed mainly by wind and, occasionally, by water (especially near water bodies). Enables rapid colonization of new regions. Seed Characteristics: Small (2-3 mm), smooth, hard-surfaced seeds. Offers protection during transport and germination. Germination: Requires warm conditions. Often propagated through cuttings for quicker growth and reliable outcomes. ¹⁵ Ecological Role: 1. Reproduction: Fruits enable the plant to reproduce, allowing it to form new colonies. 2. Colonization: The dispersal of seeds by fruits facilitates the establishment of new colonies, enabling the plant to spread and thrive. ¹⁶

Table 2. Chemical constituents in Thunbergia grandiflora Roxb.

Compound Category	Specific Compounds	Properties/Functions
1. Alkaloids	Isoquinoline Alkaloids	Anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antimicrobial, and antispasmodic properties.
2. Flavonoids	Quercetin	Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, reduces oxidative stress, and supports cardiovascular health.
	Kaempferol	Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and potentially lowers the risk of chronic diseases like cancer and heart disease.
	Rutin	Enhances vascular health, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties.
3. Glycosides	Cardiac Glycosides	Potential influence on heart function; further research needed.
3. Glycosides	Flavonoid Glycosides (e.g., Rutin)	Improved bioavailability and therapeutic effects of flavonoids.
4. Saponins	Triterpenoid Saponins	Anticancer, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory properties; contribute to cholesterol reduction.
5. Essential Oils	Terpenes	Contribute to scent, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory effects.
	Limonene	Antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties.
	Pinene	Anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antimicrobial properties.
6. Phenolic Compounds	Phenolic Acids (e.g., Gallic acid, Caffeic acid)	Antioxidant activity; neutralize free radicals, protect cells from oxidative damage.
6. Phenolic Compounds	Flavonoids (e.g., Quercetin, Kaempferol)	Contribute to antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities.
7. Tannins	Condensed Tannins	Astringent properties; assist in antimicrobial and wound-repairing actions, reduce inflammation.
8. Proteins and Amino Acids	Glutamine, Alanine, Serine	Support cellular metabolism, immune function, and overall growth and restoration.
9. Other Bioactive Compounds	Steroids	Anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer potential; requires further study for Thunbergia grandiflora.
9. Other Bioactive Compounds	Resins and Waxes	Provide defense against pests and environmental stressors.^18,19

Pharmacological Activities:

Table 3. Pharmacological activities of Thunbergia grandiflora Roxb.

Pharmacological Activity	Description	Mechanism
Antioxidant Activity	Significant free radical scavenging capacity, primarily due to flavonoids and phenolic compounds. Decreases oxidative stress and prevents cellular damage, aiding in managing chronic diseases.	· Scavenge Free Radicals: Neutralizes free radicals to prevent cellular injury. · Inhibit Lipid Peroxidation: Protects cell membranes by impeding damage caused by free radicals. · Regeneration of Antioxidants: Compounds like quercetin help regenerate Vitamin C and E. · Prevent Protein and DNA Damage: Protects against protein oxidation and DNA harm, reducing risks of aging, cancer, and age-associated diseases.
Anti-inflammatory Activity	Reduces inflammation by blocking mediators like Prostaglandins and Cytokines. Effective for arthritis and other persistent inflammatory diseases.	· Inhibition of Pro-inflammatory Cytokines: Decreases TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 levels, curbing tissue damage and chronic inflammation. · Inhibition of COX and LOX Enzymes: Suppresses COX-1, COX-2, and LOX, reducing Prostaglandins and Leukotrienes. · Reduction of Nitric Oxide (NO) Production: Lowers NO levels by inhibiting iNOS expression, mitigating tissue damage and inflammation. · Antioxidant Activity and Reduction of Oxidative Stress: Neutralizes ROS and reduces oxidative stress, curbing inflammation. · Inhibition of NF-κB Pathway: Downregulates inflammation-related genes by inhibiting NF-κB. · Modulation of MAPK Pathway: Decreases inflammatory gene expression by inhibiting the MAPK pathway.^20,21,22
Antimicrobial Activity	Effective against bacterial and fungal pathogens due to alkaloids, tannins, and terpenoids. Disrupts microbial cell walls and inhibits proliferation.	· Disruption of Microbial Cell Membranes: Saponins and flavonoids interact with lipid elements of microbial membranes, causing structural disruption and leakage of intracellular materials, leading to cell death. · Inhibition of Enzyme Activity: Flavonoids (e.g., Quercetin, Kaempferol) inhibit enzymes like DNA gyrase, critical for DNA replication and cell division. Alkaloids block enzymes involved in protein and nucleic acid synthesis. · Inhibition of Cell Wall Synthesis: Phenolic compounds (e.g., Gallic acid, Caffeic acid) disrupt peptidoglycan biosynthesis in bacterial cell walls, causing vulnerability and lysis. · Generation of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS): Produces ROS, which damage microbial lipids, proteins, and DNA, causing oxidative stress and cell death. Effective against a wide range of microorganisms. · - Inhibition of Biofilm Formation: Prevents microbial adhesion to surfaces and obstructs biofilm development, addressing chronic infections and resistance associated with biofilms.^23,24
Antidiabetic Activity	Demonstrated ability to lower blood glucose and enhance insulin sensitivity. Glycosides and flavonoids regulate carbohydrate metabolism and improve pancreatic function.	· Improvement in Insulin Sensitivity: Enhances insulin receptor expression and activates AMPK, promoting glucose uptake and fatty acid metabolism. · Inhibition of α-Amylase and α-Glucosidase: Delays carbohydrate digestion and absorption, reducing postprandial blood glucose levels. · Regulation of Hepatic Glucose Production: Inhibits gluconeogenesis by affecting enzymes like Glucose-6-phosphatase and Fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase, decreasing liver glucose output. · Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Effects: Protects pancreatic β-cells from oxidative stress and reduces tissue inflammation, enhancing insulin action and glucose metabolism. · Promotion of Glucose Uptake in Peripheral Tissues: Upregulates GLUT4, facilitating insulin-mediated glucose uptake in muscle and adipose tissue. · Reduction of Lipid Accumulation: Boosts lipid metabolism and fat oxidation via AMPK activation, decreasing fat accumulation and improving insulin sensitivity.^25,26,27
Hepatoprotective Activity
Protection Against Oxidative Stress	Protects liver cells from oxidative injury due to toxins and free radicals.	· Antioxidant Activity: Rich in flavonoids, phenolic acids, and saponins, scavenging Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) and Reactive Nitrogen Species (RNS). · Prevents lipid peroxidation, protein denaturation, and DNA damage in liver cells.
Reduction of Liver Inflammation	Reduces chronic liver inflammation caused by hepatitis, cirrhosis, or NAFLD.	· Anti-inflammatory Effects: Inhibits pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6, CRP). · Suppresses NF-κB activation, reducing inflammatory mediators. · Decreases Prostaglandins and Leukotrienes production.
Restoration of Liver Enzyme Levels	Lowers elevated liver enzyme markers, indicating reduced liver damage.	· Reduction of Hepatic Enzyme Elevation: Decreases AST, ALT, ALP, and GGT levels by protecting hepatocytes and restoring liver function.
Prevention of Liver Fibrosis	Slows the progression of fibrosis and reduces extracellular matrix buildup	· Inhibition of Liver Fibrosis: Reduces hepatic stellate cell activation, curbing collagen production. · Downregulates fibrogenic markers (α-SMA, collagen type I).
Regulation of Lipid Metabolism	Prevents fat buildup in liver cells and improves lipid metabolism.	Enhances lipid breakdown and reduces triglyceride and cholesterol accumulation. · Promotes activity of enzymes like Lipoprotein lipase (LPL) and CPT-1, aiding fatty acid oxidation.
Enhancement of Liver Detoxification	Improves the liver's ability to detoxify harmful substances.	Activates phase I and phase II detoxifying enzymes (e.g., Cytochrome P450, Glutathione-S-transferase (GST)). · Facilitates toxin conjugation and removal. ²⁸
Neuroprotective Activity
Antioxidant Activity	Protects neurons from damage caused by oxidative stress, which leads to lipid peroxidation, protein oxidation, and DNA damage.	Neutralizes ROS and RNS using flavonoids and phenolic acids (e.g., Gallic acid, Caffeic acid). · Restores balance between pro-oxidants and antioxidants, reducing oxidative harm to neurons.
Anti-inflammatory Effects	Reduces chronic neuroinflammation, a major factor in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and Huntington’s.	· Inhibits NF-κB activation, lowering pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6). · Contains flavonoids and saponins that block prostaglandins and leukotrienes, reducing inflammation and preventing neuronal harm.
Enhancement of Neurogenesis and Synaptic Plasticity	Promotes the creation of new neurons (neurogenesis) and enhances synaptic plasticity, vital for learning and memory.	· Flavonoids and alkaloids stimulate neural progenitor cell proliferation and differentiation, particularly in the hippocampus. · Enhances synaptic adaptability, critical for cognitive processes.
Regulation of Acetylcholinesterase Activity	Improves cognitive function by maintaining higher acetylcholine levels, a neurotransmitter essential for memory and learning.	· Inhibits acetylcholinesterase, preventing the breakdown of acetylcholine. · Sustains higher acetylcholine levels in the brain, aiding cognitive abilities, particularly in Alzheimer’s disease.
Inhibition of Beta-Amyloid Aggregation	Prevents the formation of β-amyloid plaques, a hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease, which cause neuronal damage and cognitive decline.	· Exhibits anti-amyloidogenic properties that inhibit the aggregation of β-amyloid peptides. · Protects neurons from amyloid-related toxicity, improving cognitive health.
Neurotrophic Effects	Supports neuronal growth, survival, and maintenance by enhancing levels of neurotrophic factors such as brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF).	Stimulates the release of BDNF, promoting neuronal development and resilience.
Neuroprotective Effects Against Neurotoxins	Protects neurons from damage caused by neurotoxic agents such as MPTP, which simulate Parkinson’s-like effects in studies.	· Mitigates neurotoxin-induced oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis. · Preserves neuronal structure and functionality.^29,30,31
Anticancer Activity
Anticancer Potential	Certain bioactive compounds, including phenolics and flavonoids, show cytotoxic effects against various cancer cell lines. They hinder tumor cell proliferation and promote apoptosis.	Bioactive compounds like flavonoids and phenolics target cancer cells, reducing proliferation and promoting programmed cell death (apoptosis).
Induction of Apoptosis	Promotes programmed cell death in cancer cells, which often evade this process.	· Activates intrinsic and extrinsic apoptotic pathways. · Flavonoids (e.g., Quercetin) and alkaloids trigger caspase activation. · Increases Bax (pro-apoptotic) and decreases Bcl-2 (anti-apoptotic) protein levels. · Activates p53 pathway.
Inhibition of Cell Proliferation	Restrains uncontrolled cell division, a hallmark of cancer.	· Disrupts the cell cycle, particularly at G0/G1 and G2/M phases. · - Flavonoids and alkaloids induce cell cycle arrest, preventing cancer cells from advancing through critical checkpoints.
Inhibition of Metastasis	Limits the spread of cancer cells to other tissues and organs.	· Suppresses migration and invasion of cancer cells. · Inhibits matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), enzymes that break down the extracellular matrix. · Saponins and flavonoids block tissue invasion and dissemination.
Inhibition of Angiogenesis	Prevents the formation of new blood vessels, essential for tumor growth and survival.	· Inhibits vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), crucial for angiogenesis. · Saponins and flavonoids block endothelial cell migration and tube formation, reducing nutrient and oxygen supply to tumors.
Reduction of Oxidative Stress	Reduces the imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants, which is often elevated in cancer cells.	· Neutralizes Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) and Reactive Nitrogen Species (RNS). · - Antioxidants like Gallic acid and Caffeic acid reduce DNA damage and oxidative harm.
Modulation of Signaling Pathways	Alters key pathways involved in cancer progression and survival.	· PI3K/Akt Pathway: Blocks cell growth and survival. · MAPK Pathway: Inhibits proliferation and migration. · NF-κB Pathway: Reduces inflammation and enhances cancer cell death. · - JAK/STAT Pathway: Enhances immune response. ^32,33

Thunbergia grandiflora Roxb. commonly known as the Bengal clock vine, the subject of various in vitro and in vivo studies exploring pharmacological properties.

Anticancer and Antioxidant Activities:

· Research demonstrated that extracts of Thunbergia grandiflora exhibit significant anticancer and antioxidant activities.

· In vivo studies on mice indicated that treatment with these extracts reduced tumor incidence and modulated oxidative stress markers.

· Specifically, the extracts decreased lipid peroxidation levels and enhanced the activity of antioxidant enzymes such as Superoxide dismutase (SOD), Glutathione (GSH), and Catalase in lung tissues.

· Additionally, the extracts downregulated pro-inflammatory Cytokines like TNF-α and IL-6, suggesting potential anti-inflammatory effects.

Anti-inflammatory Activity:

· The methanolic leaf extract of Thunbergia grandiflora shown promising anti-inflammatory properties.

· In vitro studies demonstrated the extract's ability to inhibit protein denaturation, a common pathway in inflammation.

· In vivo experiments using carrageenan-induced paw edema in rats revealed that the extract significantly reduced inflammation, with effects comparable to standard anti-inflammatory drugs like Diclofenac Sodium.

· High-Performance Thin-Layer Chromatography (HPTLC) analysis identified the presence of β-Sitosterol in the extract, a compound known for its anti-inflammatory properties.

Antioxidant and Cholinesterase Inhibitory Properties:

· In vitro studies investigated the antioxidative and cholinesterase inhibitory properties of Thunbergia grandiflora leaf extract.

· The extract exhibited significant antioxidant activity, could be beneficial in mitigating oxidative stress-related disorders.

· Additionally, the extract showed Anticholinesterase activity, indicating potential therapeutic applications in neurodegenerative diseases.

Anti-trypanosomal Potential:

· A metabolomic study of the methanolic leaf extract of Thunbergia grandiflora identified several compounds, including iridoids, flavonoids, lignans, phenolic acids, and alkaloids.

· The extract demonstrated promising inhibitory activity against Trypanosoma brucei, the causative agent of trypanosomiasis, with a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) value of 1.90 μg/mL.

· In silico analyses suggested that compounds such as Diphyllin and Avicennone B might target specific enzymes in the parasite, providing insights into the extract's mechanism of action.^34,35,36

These studies collectively highlight the therapeutic potential of Thunbergia grandiflora, supporting traditional use in various medicinal applications. However, further research, including clinical trials, is necessary to fully understand its efficacy and safety in humans.

CONCLUSION:

Bengal Clock Vine, or Thunbergia grandiflora Roxb. is a remarkable plant with significant medicinal and pharmacological potential. The diverse chemical composition, includes flavonoids, glycosides, alkaloids, tannins, phenolics, and terpenoids, underpins a wide range of bioactivities, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antidiabetic, hepatoprotective, neuroprotective, and anticancer effects, making it a promising candidate for the development of natural therapeutics. Despite the plant's traditional uses, more research is needed to fully understand the plant's mechanisms of action and potential for clinical applications. Future studies should concentrate on isolating and characterizing the active compounds, conducting clinical trials, and investigating the plant's synergistic effects with other medicinal plants in order to fully unlock the plant's therapeutic benefits.

CONFLICT OF INTEREST:

No conflict of interest.

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Received on 24.01.2025 Revised on 21.02.2025

Accepted on 24.03.2025 Published on 10.05.2025

Available online from May 14, 2025

Res. J. Pharmacognosy and Phytochem. 2025; 17(2):135-142.

DOI: 10.52711/0975-4385.2025.00023

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