Mussaenda erythrophylla, a semideciduous plant thriving in temperate and subtropical regions, has been traditionally employed in treating various ailments, including leukoderma, eye problems, dermal issues, tuberculosis, hyperbilirubinemia, ulcers, wounds, coughing, and bronchial inflammations.1 The plant's antioxidant properties are attributed to its natural constituents, found in various parts, such as bark, leaves, flowers, roots, fruits, and seeds. 2 In traditional medicine, crushed leaves and flowers are applied topically to wounds, while the glossy leaf-like bracts are used to prepare a hair wash solution 3. Ornamentally, Mussaenda erythrophylla is valued for its vibrant and long-lasting inflorescences. 4 In African and Asian traditional medicine, this species is utilized to treat intestinal worms, eye infections, body aches, diarrhea, dysentery, cough, and jaundice. 5 The roots are also consumed as an appetizer and used to treat acute gastroenteritis, laryngopharyngitis, and exhibit diuretic, antiphlogistic, antifertility, and antitumor activities. 2 The Mussaenda genus is notable for its ease of growth, resistance to severe cutting, and immunity to pests and diseases. 6 Ayurvedic literature recommends the leaves for treating arthritis. 7 Previous studies have investigated the effects of temperature, rooting substrate type, propagation date, cutting site, and 1H-indole-3-butyric acid on rooting in Mussaenda erythrophylla. 8

Mussaenda erythrophylla, a semideciduous plant with diverse traditional uses, has garnered attention for its potential therapeutic applications. Despite its widespread use in traditional medicine, a comprehensive understanding of its pharmacological properties and bioactive compounds is lacking. This review aims to investigate the current state of knowledge on M. erythrophylla's bioactivities, phytochemical composition, and potential therapeutic applications, with a specific focus on answering the following question: What are the pharmacological effects and potential uses of M. erythrophylla?

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Other Names:

Synonyms: Mussenda fulgens R.Br.ex Tendile, Mussenda splendid Welw. 10, 11, 9

Mussaenda erythrophylla is a sprawling, multi-stemmed, semi-deciduous shrub. It is often used in gardens and landscape construction due to its open, somewhat scrambling bushes. The leaves are elliptic to round, brilliant green to dark green, and oppositely arranged. They are frequently visible and pubescent. The fruit is a small, fleshy, somewhat elongated berry with many seeds. The flowers are small and tubular, borne in branching terminal panicles virtually continuously throughout the year. 3

Mussaenda erythrophylla is native to tropical Africa but has been introduced to tropical and subtropical regions, where it is grown as an ornamental. It can be found naturally in China, India, French Polynesia, Fiji, South and Central America, the West Indies, and other parts of the world. 3

Pharmacology is the critical study of how drugs are effective and safe in treating, preventing, or diagnosing diseases. This review comprehensively covers all the information on Mussaenda erythrophylla regarding its medicinal importance and pharmacological activities. Scientific Explorations in Pharmacology, Biotechnology and Material science are summarized in Table 1 and illustrated in Figure 2.

This review highlights the remarkable potential of Mussaenda erythrophylla, with its diverse range of bioactivities and therapeutic applications. The plant's antiplasmodial, anthelmintic, diuretic, anticancer, and antibacterial properties make it a promising candidate for treating various diseases. Notably, its hydroalcoholic extract has demonstrated strong analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antipyretic properties.

Practical Implications: M. erythrophylla could be explored as a natural remedy for pain management, liver-related diseases, and other conditions. Its therapeutic value could be further enhanced through standardization of extracts and dosing regimens.

Future Research Directions: Future studies should focus on:

Policy Relevance: Policymakers could consider supporting further research on M. erythrophylla to develop evidence-based guidelines for its use in traditional medicine.

Acknowledgement: The authors would like to extend their sincere gratitude to their guide, friends, and institution for their invaluable support and guidance throughout the preparation of this review article.

Author Contributions: Conceptualization and Design: V Rajani, Literature Search and Data Collection: P N Savitha, K Divya, Critical Review and Editing: C Nagaraju