ABSTRACT:
The genus Alstonia (family Apocynaceae) comprises several medicinally important species widely used in traditional systems of medicine across Asia and Africa. Species such as Alstonia venenata, Alstonia yunnanensis, Alstonia scholaris, Alstonia rostrata, Alstonia muelleriana, Alstonia congensis, and Alstonia boonei have long been employed in ethnomedicine for the management of fever, gastrointestinal disorders, infections, neurological conditions, and inflammatory diseases. This review aims to comprehensively summarize the ethnobotanical relevance, phytochemical composition, and pharmacological properties of selected Alstonia species. Ethnobotanical evidence indicates extensive use of bark, leaves, roots, and latex in the form of decoctions, infusions, and topical preparations. Phytochemical investigations reveal the presence of diverse bioactive constituents, particularly indole alkaloids, flavonoids, terpenoids, phenolic compounds, and glycosides. Pharmacological studies have demonstrated a broad spectrum of biological activities including antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, cytotoxic, anti-inflammatory, antimalarial, antioxidant, and anticonvulsant effects. Notably, several studies highlight species- and solvent-dependent variations in bioactivity. Despite promising preclinical findings, most studies rely on in vitro and preliminary in vivo models. Therefore, further systematic investigations, including mechanistic studies and clinical validation, are required to fully establish the therapeutic potential of the Alstonia genus.
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