Phytochemical composition and therapeutic potential of Caralluma edulis a cholistani plant

Abstract

This study explores C. edulis, a plant indigenous to the Cholistan desert, locally known as Pimpa or Seetu, traditionally consumed as a vegetable. Our research aimed to comprehensively analyze its phytochemical constituents, and evaluate its antibacterial, antioxidant, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, and antipyretic potentials. Utilizing a range of extracts including methanol (MtOH), ethanol (EtOH), ethyl acetate (EA), n-hexane (n-hex), dichloromethane (DCM), and aqueous (Aq), for effective extraction of phytochemicals from C. edulis. Standard biochemical assays and High-Performance Liquid Chromatography-Photodiode Array (HPLC-PDA) were used for analysis of phenolic compounds. Antibacterial effect(s) were confirmed through disc diffusion method and min inhibitory concentrations (MICs). The antioxidant activity was assessed through the Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP) assay and the DPPH radical scavenging method. In vivo antiviral potential was assessed through Hemagglutination (HA) test. Anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, and antipyretic activities were performed on female albino rats using carrageenan, alloxan monohydrate and yeast-induced methods, respectively. Statistical analysis was done using standard one way ANOVA.Our findings revealed a rich diversity of phenolic compounds and the presence of proteins, alkaloids, and carbohydrates in C. edulis. MtOH and n-hex extracts demonstrated deep antiviral activity against various viral strains. In vivo toxicology studies indicated no significant toxicity at doses up to 5 g/kg. The DCM extract has shown notable anti-inflammatory effects, and EA extract was leading in antipyretic activity. All extracts, except MtOH, exhibited antidiabetic properties.In conclusion, C. edulis emerges not only as a valuable nutritional source but also as a potent alternative medicinal resource, offering wide range of therapeutic benefits.