Integrative Review on Nyctanthes arbor-tristis: Exploring its Botanical Identity, Bioactive Compounds, and Biomedical Applications

Nyctanthes arbor-tristis or night-flowering jasmine (also called parijat) is a long-standing medicinal herb that is commonly used in Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani and various folk medicines of South Asia. The current integrative review will critically assess the botanical identity, ethnomedicinal property, phytochemical composition, pharmacological action, and mechanism of action of Nyctanthes arbor-tristis and also indicate its biomedical potential and future therapeutic potential. The plant has a clear botanical and pharmacognostic profile so that it is identified and evaluated with ease in terms of quality. The ethnobotanical record records that it has a wide range of applications in the treatment of fever, inflammation, arthritis, metabolic disease, infections and neurological disorders. Phytochemical studies indicate abundant levels of primary and secondary metabolites with the most significant ones being iridoid glycosides, flavonoids, phenolic compounds, terpenoids, steroids, and volatile compounds which are all involved in its therapeutic effects. The spectrum of pharmacological activity of experimental studies has shown the presence of an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, antipyretic, analgesic, antimicrobial, antidiabetic, hepatoprotective, nephroprotective, neuroprotective, cardioprotective, and anticancer effects. Mechanistically, these effects are coupled by mediating the oxidative stress pathways, controlling the production of inflammatory mediators and cytokines, enzyme inhibition, receptor-based processes, and engagement of major molecular signal pathways. The variability in phytochemical composition, the absence of standardized processes of extraction and the absence of human studies are significant obstacles to translational development. To sum up, Nyctanthes arbor-tristis is a promising multi-target medicinal plant that has a high potential in the development of drugs in the future. Strict mechanistic research, standardized preparations, and properly structured clinical trials are needed to help in its evidence-based incorporation into the current healthcare systems.