An overview of the research progress on Mylabris: entomology, active ingredients, traditional use, pharmacology, clinical application, pharmacokinetics, toxicity and detoxification strategies

Mylabris, a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), is derived from the dried forms of Mylabris phalerata Pallas or Mylabris cichorii Linnaeus. It was recorded in Shennong Bencaojing in Han Dynasty and used for the treatment of psoriasis, facial paralysis, amenorrhea, and carbuncle. As a key component in antitumor formulations, Mylabris contains numerous bioactive compounds, including organic acids, terpenoids, amino acids and their conjugates, metal complexes, cantharimide dimers and peptides and proteins. Traditionally, Mylabris has been employed in the treatment of malaria, suppurative infectious diseases, and lymph node tuberculosis. Pharmacological studies have demonstrated its antitumor, anti-inflammatory, leukocytosis-inducing, and immune function-enhancing activities, as well as its pest resistance and skin blistering effects. Clinical prescriptions containing Mylabris have been used in the treatment of cancer and skin diseases. However, strong penetration and rapid absorption in all tissues contribute to multi-organ toxicity on the liver, kidney, heart, nerves and reproduction and gastrointestinal systems. Therefore, traditional processing methods and targeted drug delivery systems have been designed for increasing efficacy and decreasing toxicity. Here, we provide a comprehensive overview of Mylabris in terms of entomology, active ingredients, traditional use, pharmacology, clinical application, pharmacokinetics, toxicity, and detoxification strategies to provide a rational application in the future.