PHYTOCHEMICAL AND PHARMACOLOGICAL ATTRIBUTES OF SALVADORA PERSICA WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO ITS TRADITIONAL USES – A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

Ayesha Mustafa, Ahmed Umer Sohaib, Kainat Hafeez, Roheena Sohail, Iqra Saleem

Abstract

Background: Salvadora persica (Salvadoraceae) also known as miswak, pelu, meethi jaal and kharijaal, is an ethno-medicinal plant which grows in Middle East, tropical and subtropical regions of Africa and Asia extending up to China and Japan.

Objectives: This study is designed to document a complete profile of the plant which is previously published.

Methodology: The articles published between the duration of 2002-2021 were reviewed with the help of different databases

Results: In traditional medicine, the stems, branches, leaves, seeds and roots of Salvadora persica are used for oral hygiene, as carminative, astringent, diuretic, analgesic, antitussive, against toothache, skin diseases, rheumatism, scurvy, piles, and hepatic disorders. It is an evergreen shrub that exhibits pharmacological effects such ashypoglycemic effects, anti-bacterial activity, anti-oxidant activity, anti-ulcerogenic activity, anti-caries effect, hypo-cholestremia effect, anti-fungal activity and anti-depressant activity. There are various phytochemicals present in Salvadora persica which are biologically active. These phyto-constituents are volatile oils, piperidine derivatives, terpenoids, fixed oils, steroids, alkaloids, saponins, tannins and organic acids.The present review offers a detailed survey on literature highlighting the traditional, pharmacognostic and pharmacological uses of Salvadora persica.

Conclusion: The plant has many important therapeutic activities further research is needed to ensure safety and efficacy