Botany, chemistry, and pharmacological applications of Terminalia catappa L.

Terminalia catappa, a tropical tree species, has been extensively used in traditional medicine for its diverse range of medicinal properties. This review aims to summarize the current knowledge on the medicinal, pharmacological, and bioactive properties of T. catappa. The tree's various parts, including the bark, leaves, fruits, and stem bark, have been found to exhibit antifungal, antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, hepatoprotective, and anticancer activities. Phytochemical analysis has revealed the presence of bioactive compounds, including alkaloids, tannins, steroids, cardiac glycosides, flavonoids, phenols, saponins, coumarins, phenols, flavonoids, and carotenoids. The tree's potential in managing various health conditions, including dysentery, gastritis, diabetes, hypertension, and cancer, is highlighted. This review underscores the importance of T. catappa as a valuable resource for developing new medicines and treatments, and emphasizes the need for further research to fully exploit its medicinal and pharmacological potential.