Viola species of western Himalayas as a potential medicinal spice for health benefits: A comprehensive review on ethnobotany, pharmacology and phytochemistry

Abstract

The Viola genus boasts about 800 species globally, found across Asia, Europe, North America, and Australia. Traditionally, Viola species have been employed in folk medicine to alleviate fever, asthma, colds, and respiratory ailments. Recent focus has been on Viola species found in India (IVS), reflecting their significance in traditional Indian medicine. Data on IVS was gathered from various databases and literature sources, showcasing their pharmacological activities and chemical compounds. Viola species are particularly utilized for respiratory issues, with Asian countries (India, China, Pakistan, and Afghanistan) contributing significantly to related research. Seven Viola species have been identified in India, notably Viola odorata and Viola canescens. These species contain diverse compounds such as polyphenols (flavonoids, phenolic acids) and cyclotides (peptides, proteins). The study suggested that Indian Himalayan region is most suitable for captive cultivation of Viola species. While pre-clinical research hints at promising pharmacological activities, further exploration and isolation of bioactive compounds are warranted. Ethnopharmacological records require more substantiation, urging comprehensive research on IVS for potential therapeutic applications.