Pharmacognosy Reviews
Volume 20, Issue 40 • 2026
An Updated Review on the Diverse Therapeutic Potential of Calendula officinalis L.
Calendula officinalis (CO) Linn. is a renowned medicinal herb belonging to the Asteraceae family. within the plant kingdom. Various online bibliographic data bases namely, Google scholar, PubMed, Scifinder, and Web of Science were used for integrating information. This plant comprises alkaloid glycosides, saponins, flavonoids, carotenoids, triterpenoids, oils, amino acids, steroids, and quinones. These chemical compounds exhibit diverse pharmacological effects including anti-inflammatory, anticancer, anthelminthic, antidiabetic, wound-healing, hepatoprotective, gynecological, ophthalmic, and dermatological disorders the study examines new studies from the past five year about the therapeutical application. Calendula officinalis, highlighting its extensive potential as a traditional medicine. We have also clarified the molecular processes of Calendula officinalis and contemporary clinical trials. This review aims to synthesize, address deficiencies in current research, and offer numerous opportunities for researchers seeking to validate traditional practices.
Bioelectrical and Neurochemical Modulation by Peganum harmala: A Narrative Review of its Role in Neural Hyperactivity, Stress Circuitry, and Cortical Excitability
Neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative conditions are widespread across the globe, frequently linked to disturbances in monoaminergic transmission, increased cortical excitability, and maladaptive responses to stress. Existing pharmacological treatments are often hindered by delayed onset of action, limited effectiveness, and adverse side effects. This narrative review provides a critical examination of the neurochemical and electrophysiological characteristics of Peganum harmala L. (Syrian rue), highlighting its potential as a versatile botanical option for managing Central Nervous System (CNS) disorders. A comprehensive literature review was performed utilizing databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science until 2025. This search included preclinical studies, mechanistic investigations, and toxicological assessments concerning key alkaloids from P. harmala (harmine, harmaline, tetrahydroharmine, vasicine). Only studies published in English that reported pharmacological or electrophysiological findings were considered. The β-carboline alkaloids found in P. harmala function as reversible inhibitors of MAO-A, leading to increased levels of serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. Harmine has been shown to enhance BDNF expression while also exhibiting antioxidant properties. On an electrophysiological level, harmaline modifies thalamocortical rhythms and EEG patterns, affecting cortical excitability. In animal models, it demonstrates anxiolytic, antidepressant, and neuroprotective effects; however, at high doses it can provoke proconvulsant activity and serotonergic toxicity. Its role in modulating stress through HPA axis downregulation and amygdala-hippocampal plasticity further emphasizes its significance in psychiatry. Peganum harmala presents a distinctive dual mechanism-both biochemical and bioelectrical-that positions it as a potential treatment for mood disorders, seizures, and stress-related conditions. However, successful clinical application will require standardized formulations along with studies focusing on dosage safety and controlled trials to confirm effectiveness while minimizing neurotoxicity.
Anti-inflammatory study of Zingiber officinale (Ginger): A Systematic Review
Zingiber officinale Roscoe's ginger is a widely used and ubiquitous spice. Among its many chemical components are phenolic chemicals, terpenes, polysaccharides, lipids, organic acids, and unprocessed fibers. The health benefits of ginger are mainly attributed to phenolic components like gingerols and shogaols. It has been utilized for several biological purposes in Ayurvedic medicine from ancient times. The objective of this systematic review is to evaluate and compile the available data regarding Zingiber officinale's anti-inflammatory properties. The specific objectives are to identify the methods used to evaluate anti-inflammatory activity, to analyze the bioactive compound responsible for the observed effects, and to evaluate the overall anti-inflammatory potency demonstrated by Zingiber officinale across different studies. A thorough search of the literature was carried out using electronic databases, such as PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, using predefined search terms related to Zingiber officinale and anti-inflammatory activity. Studies meeting the inclusion criteria were selected based on predetermined eligibility criteria. Data extraction was performed to compile information on anti-inflammatory assays employed, bioactive compounds identified, and outcomes related to anti-inflammatory efficacy. A quality assessment was carried out on the included studies in order to examine the validity and dependability of the stated results. Preliminary findings from the selected studies indicate that Zingiber officinale exhibits significant anti-inflammatory activity. The comprehensive synthesis of evidence from this systematic review will enhance understanding of Zingiber officinale therapeutic potential, particularly in the context of anti-inflammatory mediated health benefits, and may guide future research and applications in health promotion and disease prevention.
A Review on Pharmacological Studies and Phytochemistry of Aegle marmelos (L.) Correa
The traditional medicinal herb Aegle marmelos (L.) Correa, also referred to as bilva or bael, has a long history in India's Ayurvedic system. Ancient writings such as the Charka Samhita and the Vedas describe its medicinal applications. The substantial study on its phytochemistry, pharmacological characteristics, and therapeutic potential is compiled in this review. Bioactive chemicals are abundant in the plant's leaves, bark, fruits, and roots, among other sections. More than 100 different phytonutrients have been identified, with coumarins (such Luvangetin and Marmelosin), alkaloids (like Fagarine and Skimmianine), phenols, and flavonoids being important components. In terms of nutrition, the fruit pulp is a significant source of vitamin C and carbs. Many of its traditional uses have been verified by pharmacological investigations. Because it inhibits the absorption of glucose and increases the synthesis of insulin, the plant has strong antidiabetic effects. With extracts exhibiting cytotoxic activities against breast cancer cells and chemopreventive activity in skin tumor models, it has shown encouraging anticancer characteristics. Strong antidiarrheal and antiulcer properties, the latter of which are ascribed to bolstering the mucosal defense, justify its traditional usage for gastrointestinal problems. A. marmelos also has strong anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antioxidant, wound-healing, retroprotective, and cardioprotective properties. According to toxicological research, the plant is usually thought to be safe. In order to improve its effectiveness in treating diseases like diabetes and cancer, A. marmelos's future prospects include creating cutting-edge drug delivery systems including phytosomes, microspheres, and nanoparticles. According to this review, A. marmelos is a multipurpose medicinal plant with potential for contemporary therapeutic uses that is supported by science.
Antioxidant Status of Natural Products in Neurodegenerative Disorders: A Comprehensive Review
Neurodegenerative Disorders (NDDs), including Alzheimer’s Disease (AD), Parkinson’s Disease (PD), Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), Huntington’s Disease (HD), and Multiple Sclerosis (MS) represent a growing global health burden, affecting hundreds of millions of individuals worldwide. A central mechanistic driver of neurodegeneration is oxidative stress, defined as an imbalance between Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) generation and endogenous antioxidant defense systems. Natural products derived from plants, fungi, and marine organisms harbor a rich array of antioxidant phytochemicals-including polyphenols, flavonoids, alkaloids, terpenoids, and Vitamins-whose neuroprotective properties are the subject of intense scientific investigation. This review aimed to comprehensively evaluate the antioxidant status and neuroprotective mechanisms of natural products specifically relevant to neurodegenerative disorders, synthesizing evidence from in vitro, in vivo, and clinical research. A systematic literature search was conducted across PubMed, Consensus, and supplemental databases using relevant MeSH terms and keywords, including “natural antioxidants,” “neurodegenerative disorders,” “oxidative stress,” “Nrf2 pathway,” and specific compound names. Priority was given to studies published between 2020 and 2026, with up to five seminal older works included were essential. Evidence indicates that natural antioxidants, such as curcumin, resveratrol, quercetin, Epigallocatechin-3-Gallate (EGCG), baicalein, withanolides, bacosides, and ginsenosides exert neuroprotection through multiple mechanisms: direct ROS scavenging, activation of the Nrf2-Keap1-Antioxidant Response Element (ARE) antioxidant pathway, mitochondrial protection, modulation of neuroinflammatory cascades, and inhibition of pathological protein aggregation (amyloid-β and α-synuclein). Despite robust preclinical data, clinical translation remains challenged by poor bioavailability, rapid metabolism, and limited long-term human trial data. Natural product-derived antioxidants represent a scientifically promising, multi-targeted strategy for the prevention and adjunctive treatment of neurodegenerative disorders. Advances in nanotechnology-based delivery systems and standardized formulations are expected to bridge the gap between preclinical success and clinical efficacy. Rigorous clinical trials with standardized dosing are urgently needed.
Soluble Epoxide Hydrolase (sEH): A Novel Therapeutic Target in Mitigating the Symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease
Parkinson's Disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease characterized by the degeneration of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra, which results in motor control problems. One of the main pathological aspects is the presence of alpha-synuclein aggregates, which are called Lewy bodies. Neuroinflammation is at the centre of PD progression and the contribution of activated microglia, lymphocyte invasion, and increased pro-inflammatory cytokines to neuronal damage. Epoxyeicosatrienoic Acids (EETs), the products of arachidonic acid metabolised through cytochrome P450 epoxygenase, have anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects. Specifically, NF-kB activation is inhibited, and BDNF-mediated neuronal survival and neurite outgrowth are enhanced by 11,12-EET. However, EETs are rapidly degraded into less active diols (DHETs) by soluble Epoxide Hydrolase (sEH). sEH inhibition prevents the breakdown of EET, thus elevating their levels and therapeutic potential. The sEH is an attractive approach to inhibiting neuroinflammation and safeguarding dopaminergic neurons in PD.
Cubosomes as Advanced Nanocarriers for Oral Ulcer Treatment: A Review on Their Role in Enhancing Therapeutic Activity
Oral ulcers are painful inflammatory lesions of the oral mucosa that interfere with eating, speaking, swallowing, and overall quality of life. Recurrent aphthous stomatitis, traumatic ulcers, chemically induced ulcers, and inflammatory mucosal lesions are commonly encountered forms. Although topical corticosteroids, antiseptics, local anesthetics, protective gels, and herbal preparations are widely used, their therapeutic action is frequently limited by rapid salivary washout, short mucosal residence time, poor penetration, enzymatic degradation, and the need for frequent application. Recent advances in oral mucosal drug delivery have therefore focused on mucoadhesive and nanocarrier-based systems that can improve drug retention, local bioavailability, and sustained therapeutic action. Cubosomes are lipid-based, self-assembled, bicontinuous cubic phase nanoparticles composed of amphiphilic lipids such as glyceryl monooleate or phytantriol and stabilizers such as Poloxamer 407. Their unique internal architecture contains interpenetrating aqueous channels separated by lipid bilayers, enabling simultaneous incorporation of hydrophilic, lipophilic, and amphiphilic molecules. This makes cubosomes highly suitable for delivering anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, analgesic, and wound-healing agents to oral ulcer sites. When incorporated into a mucoadhesive gel, cubosomes may improve mucosal adhesion, protect unstable drugs or phytoconstituents, sustain release, enhance local penetration, reduce dosing frequency, and maintain therapeutic concentration at the ulcer surface. Herbal extracts such as Psidium guajava leaf extract may particularly benefit from cubosomal delivery because their flavonoid, tannin, and phenolic constituents have reported anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and wound-healing potential. Overall, cubosome-loaded mucoadhesive gels represent a promising advanced approach for oral ulcer therapy, although further standardized preclinical and clinical studies are required.
Periodizing Antioxidant Intake: Why “Recovery” and “Adaptation” Phases Need Different Advice
Debate over whether athletes should take antioxidant supplements often proceeds as though a single answer must apply at all times. I write to suggest that the more useful question is not whether, but when—and that antioxidant advice should be periodized to the training phase. According to PubMed, antioxidant supplementation can blunt the redox-sensitive signaling—through pathways such as MAPK and PGC-1α—that drives mitochondrial biogenesis and other adaptations to training, which argues against routine high-dose use during phases where adaptation is the goal. The reactive oxygen species generated by exercise are, in this sense, part of the training stimulus rather than simply a cost. Yet the same compounds may have a legitimate role at other times. According to PubMed, a review of tart cherry juice in athletes found that its polyphenols can lessen pain and accelerate strength recovery while reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, and explicitly noted that such supplementation may not be optimal during the adaptation or build phase but may be beneficial when recovery between intense competitions is the priority. The benefit and the harm depend on the phase.
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