Anogeissus latifolia : A Comprehensive Review from Ethanobotanical Insights to Future Pharmacological Frontiers

Anogeissus latifolia, commonly known as Axlewood, Indian Gum Tree, or Gum Ghatti, belongs to the Combretaceae family and is native to India, Nepal, Myanmar, and Sri Lanka. It thrives in most tropical and subtropical regions of India. Different parts of the plant contain various proteins, carbohydrates, sugars (arabinose, galactose, mannose, xylose, rhamnose, and glucuronic acid), minerals (magnesium and calcium salts of ghattic acid), and a wide range of phytochemicals such as alkaloids, flavonoids, phenols, terpenoids, sterols, saponins, tannins, coumarins, quinine, and ellagic acid. Studies have indicated the potential of Anogeissus latifolia in managing various health conditions, including antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, anti-parasitic, antioxidant, hepatoprotective, wound healing, and hypolipidemic effects. However, like many medicinal plants, Anogeissus latifolia demonstrates a dose-dependent toxicity profile, particularly when administered intraperitoneally. Research efforts have been directed towards elucidating its safety profile, and findings suggest that it can be considered safe when administered within prescribed dosages. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive review encompassing the ethnobotanical significance, morphological characteristics, phytochemistry, pharmacological actions, and toxicological aspects of Anogeissus latifolia. Additionally, it explores future research perspectives in the field of Anogeissus latifolia pharmacology and therapeutics.