Bioactive flavonoid components in ethanolic extracts of Marsilea Minuta: An updated review of isolation techniques, structural elucidation and pharmacological properties

Marsilea Minuta (dwarf water clover) is a freshwater fern primarily from tropical and subtropical regions. Over the centuries it has remained a cornerstone of conventional systems of medicine for its wide range of healing properties. In recent times, scientific developments have brought forth the discovery of bioactive flavonoids in its ethanolic extracts which are the backbone of its pharmacological actions. This review article explains in detail the isolation techniques, structural determination methods and pharmacological actions of these flavonoids that may serve as promising agents for contemporary therapeutic uses. Marsilea Minuta contains flavonoids and other phenolic compound such as gallic acid, caffeic acid, rutin, quercetin and ferulic acid which have been affirmated through sophisticated HPLC-PFP procedures. The compounds have been shown to have antioxidant, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities that make them interesting for treatments like anti-cancer, anti-coronary heart disease, anti-diabetes treatments. More recently, M. minuta has been proved to contain sedative, anticonvulsant and antidepressant-like Activities being associated with the presence of marsiline. From serving as antioxidants to fighting certain diseases, we can image the potential use of these flavonoids in a modern medication. Nevertheless, there remain difficulties in their isolation and identification, with further work needed to unlock their therapeutic potential.