Phytochemistry of Uvaria narum: A multifaceted perspective and ethnopharmacological potential

The blooming ethnomedicinal plant Uvaria narum (Dunal) Wall is mostly found in the deep forests of the Western Ghats and belongs to the Annonaceae family. Uvaria narum is a spreading, pubescent shrub with large, dark bluish-green leaves. Phytochemistry and pharmacognostic studies have revealed that the plant contains a variety of phytochemicals that are both remarkable and beneficial to humans. The plant possesses a number of beneficial properties, such as antioxidant activity exhibited by the presence of polyphenols, and tannins, antifungal activity brought on by the benzoic acid moiety, and tumor-fighting abilities contributed by terpenoid and alkaloids. The presence of phytoconstituents in plants has been attributed to various medicinal properties, like anticancer activity. The plant may also be useful against aging and other diseases caused by free radicals. In vitro cytotoxicity is due to terpenoids, phytosterols, and flavonoids, whereas the liver is protected by flavonoids. The chemical profile of the plant shows that acetogenins, including stereoisomers, are important constituents of the root bark. Eczema, itching, varicose veins, haemorrhoids, jaundice, inflammation, and fever are the main ailments for which this herb is used.