Phytochemicals, antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, and potential applications of Nypa fruticans Wurmb.: An updated review

Nipa palm (Nypa fruticans Wurmb.) is a type of mangrove plant that typically grows along rivers and canals in tropical and subtropical regions. All parts of the nipa palm exhibit biological activity, containing compounds such as tannins, alkaloids, saponins, polyphenols, flavonoids, quinones, steroids, and triterpenoids. Research has indicated that nipa palm has potential therapeutic benefits for conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer. Additionally, by-products from nipa palm, including its husk and trunk, are utilized in various industries, such as printing, cellulose production, alcohol manufacturing, and activated carbon production. Despite its numerous potential applications in industries, agriculture, wastewater treatment, and medicine, nipa palm remains underexplored, highlighting the need to harness this abundant resource fully. This article provides updated assessments of the chemical composition, biological activity, antibacterial properties, antioxidant capacity, and various applications of nipa palm based on available literature.