A comprehensive review on Vanda tessellata: Ethnobotany, phytochemistry, pharmacology, propagation and conservation

Vanda tessellata (Orchidaceae), a widely distributed Asian epiphytic orchid, holds significant ethnomedicinal, ecological, and therapeutic importance. Traditionally utilized in Ayurvedic and Unani systems, the plant is prescribed for inflammation, neurological disorders, bronchitis, rheumatism, fever, and various respiratory ailments. Recent phytochemical investigations have revealed the presence of phenolics, alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, and newly identified isoflavones, which contribute to its broad pharmacological activities. In vitro and in vivo studies have confirmed antinociceptive, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and cytoprotective properties. Conservation concerns have emerged due to overharvesting and habitat degradation; however, advancements in micropropagation, asymbiotic seed germination, and genetic fidelity testing offer promising avenues for sustainable utilization. This review synthesizes current scientific knowledge across botanical, ethnomedicinal, phytochemical, pharmacological, and conservation-related domains, while highlighting critical research gaps and future directions.