Ficus exasperata Vahl: sandpaper fig with traditional medicinal uses

Ficus exasperata Vahl, commonly known as the Sandpaper Fig, is a deciduous, afro-tropical tree renowned for its traditional medicinal applications across Africa. Its leaves, stem bark, and roots are utilized in folk medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including inflammation, ulcers, hypertension, rheumatism, asthma, intestinal pain, and infections. Phytochemical investigations reveal the presence of bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, tannins, saponins, alkaloids, and steroids, which contribute to its pharmacological properties, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antihypertensive, and antimicrobial effects. This review explores the morphological features, traditional uses, phytochemical composition, and pharmacological potential of F. exasperata.