Exploring the Potential Antioxidant, Anti-Inflammatory, and Anticancer Properties of Careya arborea: A Promising Underutilized Source of Natural Therapeutics

Careya arborea, commonly known as wild guava, is a deciduous tree native to Asia, including Sri Lanka. Traditionally used to treat various ailments such as skin diseases, tumors, gastrointestinal disorders, and inflammation, it is valued for its notable astringent properties. Rich in phytochemicals, including phenolics, terpenes, sterols, tannins, and saponins, Careya arborea exhibits potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer activities. Its anticancer effects are primarily attributed to the induction of apoptosis and the inhibition of cancer cell proliferation, with several extracts such as chloroform, ethyl acetate, and methanol demonstrating selective cytotoxicity against cancer cell lines. The high phenolic content of Careya arborea underpins its antioxidant potential, which plays a crucial role in mitigating oxidative stress and associated inflammatory conditions. Despite its medicinal potential, Careya arborea remains an underutilized plant in Sri Lanka. Greater attention should be given to promoting its use in both traditional and modern healthcare systems to harness its therapeutic benefits. Given its therapeutic potential, sustainable harvesting and conservation efforts are essential to protect this plant from overexploitation and habitat loss. Taking all these factors into account, this review emphasizes Careya arborea’s potential as a source of natural therapeutic agent, highlighting the importance of further research and conservation to unlock its full medicinal value for clinical applications.