Unlocking the Potential of Strychnos potatorum: A Review of its Pharmacognostical, Phytochemical and Pharmacological Properties

Abstract

Strychnos potatorum Linn. f., commonly known as the “clearing nut tree,” is a medicinally important plant belonging to the family Loganiaceae. It has been widely used in traditional medicine systems such as Ayurveda, Siddha, and Unani for treating various ailments, including diabetes, diarrhea, liver disorders, eye diseases, urinary complications, and inflammatory conditions. The seeds, roots, bark, fruits, and leaves are rich in diverse secondary metabolites such as alkaloids, flavonoids, glycosides, phenolics, saponins, and sterols, which contribute to its broad spectrum of pharmacological activities. Numerous studies have reported anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, anti-ulcer, antidiarrheal, antioxidant, antipyretic, and antiarthritic properties. Additionally, its seeds are traditionally used as natural coagulants in water purification, highlighting its environmental relevance. Despite extensive ethnomedicinal usage and promising experimental evidence, further research is required to establish its safety profile, isolate bioactive compounds, and validate its therapeutic potential through clinical studies. This review consolidates the pharmacognostical features, phytochemical composition, and pharmacological properties of S. potatorum, providing a comprehensive outlook on its medicinal significance and future prospects in drug development.