Genus Bauhinia (Fabaceae): A review from phytochemistry to pharmacology- Exploring traditional uses and toxicological insights across Asia.

Background: The genus Bauhinia and its species has been known since ages by tribal people and medicinal practitioners in tropical and subtropical regions for the treatment of diabetes, diarrhea, cough, fever, stomach disorders, skin diseases, and other diseases.

Study design: Our aim was to collect and explore the literature available on the traditional applications and medicinal potential of genus Bauhinia across Asia, so that this review can be used as standard to analyze the immense potential of this genus and can be explored further for clinical use.

Methods: The information was rigorously gathered from Google Scholar, Pub Med, Elsevier, Wiley Online Search, Science Direct, and other literature sources.

Results: As per the literature, this genus possesses antimicrobial, antioxidant, nephroprotective, anticancer, hepatoprotective, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, and antidepressant activities both in vitro and in vivo, due to the presence of flavonoids, steroidal saponins, bauhinioxepins, chromanones, and phenolic compounds.

Conclusion: In this review, we have detailed for the first time the categorized information about traditional uses, geographical distribution, morphological features, phytochemistry, pharmacological, and toxicological effects, and patents associated with Bauhinia species. However, more research is needed to explore the mechanisms of action, pharmacokinetics of the phytoconstituents, and clinical evaluation for their future use in treating various ailments.