Genus Calliandra—Calliandra portoricensis, Calliandra haematocephala, Calliandra surinamensis: A Journey from Traditional Knowledge to Modern Experimental Studies in Disease Prevention and Treatment

The genus <i>Calliandra</i> (Leguminosae: Mimosoideae) encompasses over 200 species, many of which hold significant ethnobotanical value. However, a critical and comprehensive review consolidating their phytochemical and pharmacological knowledge is currently lacking. This article aims to provide a detailed and analytical overview of the traditional uses, phytochemistry, and pharmacological properties of the most studied <i>Calliandra</i> species, identifying trends, gaps, and future research priorities. A systematic literature search was conducted using Google Scholar, Scopus, Web of Science, and PubMed from 1986 to 2025. The review focuses on <i>Calliandra portoricensis</i>, <i>Calliandra haematocephala</i>, and <i>Calliandra surinamensis</i> due to the relative abundance of scientific literature concerning their medicinal applications. These species produce a diverse array of secondary metabolites, including distinctive galloylated flavonoids, phenolic acids, and triterpenes. Extracts and isolated compounds demonstrate a wide range of pharmacological activities, such as antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, and anticancer effects, providing a scientific basis for their traditional uses. The genus <i>Calliandra</i> represents a promising source of bioactive compounds. However, future research must focus on compound isolation, mechanistic studies, rigorous toxicological profiling, and clinical trials to fully realize its therapeutic potential.