Phytochemistry, pharmacological potential, and network-based insights of Eucommia ulmoides in traditional Chinese medicine

Introduction: Eucommia ulmoides (EU) has been widely used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for centuries, particularly for strengthening the liver and kidneys, supporting bone health, and managing hypertension. Although it has a lengthy application history, incorporating this substance into contemporary medical practices has been somewhat restricted. It comprises more than 200 identified compound including flavonoids, iridoids, lignans, phenolic acid, steroid, terpenoids, and carbohydrates etc. This review intends to consolidate the current knowledge of their pharmacological effects of EU and explore its prospective therapeutic advantages utilizing the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology (TCMSP) database. Many effective active components from TCMSP database were identified by researchers, based on profiles of drug-likeness (DL ≥ 0.18) and oral bioavailability (OB ≥ 30 %). Methods: An extensive literature survey was done using multiple databases such as Google Scholar, PubMed, Springer Link, and Science Direct, to examine the phytoconstituents and pharmacological effects of EU. This article seeks to provide a summary of its primary chemical constituents and pharmacological activities associated with EU. Results: EU, recognized as a traditional herbal remedy, has been employed for its various therapeutic potentials, including antihypertensive effects, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, hypoglycaemic effects, and hypolipidemic properties. Additionally, digestive benefits, hepatoprotective effects, antitumor activities, antioxidant activities, antimicrobial effects, immunomodulatory activities, and anti-osteoporosis effects were also reported by different researchers. Furthermore, it acts on the CNS, reducing inflammation, helping with Alzheimer's disease, and hypnotic and anticonvulsant traits. It also provides renal protective effects, anti-aging benefits, and anti-hyperuricemia properties. Discussion: Experimental research supports certain pharmacological properties of EU, a traditional herbal medicine. However, further studies are necessary to fully understand its implications and therapeutic potential.