Ethnomedicinal Practices, Bioactive Constituents, and Pharmacological Applications of Ficus religiosa L. (Moraceae): A Comprehensive and Systematic Review

Background: Ficus religiosa L. (F. religiosa), offers a rich source of ethnomedicinal practices. Extensive research reveals its diverse bioactive constituents and pharmacological applications, emphasizing the need for comprehensive reviews to bridge traditional knowledge with modern scientific understanding. Objective: To explore and analyze the ethnomedicinal practices associated with F. religiosa (Family: Moraceae), investigate bioactive constituents, and pharmacological applications, to providean understanding of the plant’s medicinal properties and potential therapeutic benefits. Methodology: A systematic search of relevant literature was performed using electronic databases. Articles were screened based on predetermined inclusion and exclusion criteria to ensure relevance and quality. The extracted data were analyzed and organized to provide a comprehensive overview. Result: Revealed a wide array of ethnomedicinal usesacross various cultures and traditional healing systems. The plant exhibited a rich diversity of bioactive constituents, such as alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, glycosides, steroids, and essential oils. Pharmacological investigations demonstrated a broad spectrum of biological activities like antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antidiabetic, hepatoprotective, neuroprotective, anticancer, antiallergic, analgesic, and antipyretic for managing various ailments. Additionally, its dosage limits and toxicity were reviewed, emphasizing the importance of safe usage and consideration of adverse effects from high doses or prolonged use. Conclusion: F. religiosa emerges as a promising for further exploration in drug discovery and development, due to its diverse ethnomedicinal uses, rich phytochemical profile, and broad spectrum of pharmacological activities. However, care should be taken regarding dosage limits and potential toxicity, forcing the need for further research to establish safe and effective therapeutic ranges.