Phytoconstituents and biofunctional attributes of Adenophora triphylla: A review

Adenophora ( A.) triphylla is a medicinal plant belonging to the family Campanulaceae and has long been used as medicine and food. Despite its benefits, a comprehensive review of its health-promoting properties is lacking. Therefore, this review summarizes the botany, traditional use, phytoconstituents, and pharmacological properties of A. triphylla. The review describes the presence of over 130 phytoconstituents, including triterpenoids, polyphenols, flavonoids, and phenylpropanoids, identified from the aerial parts and roots of this plant. Extracts and isolated compounds have been reported to exhibit noteworthy pharmacological activities, including antioxidant, anti-obesity, anti-cancer, anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, lung-protective, hepatoprotective, osteogenesis-promoting, anti-angiogenic, anti-fungal, and anti-melanogenic activities in various cell-and animal-based models. However, data on clinical studies, safety, and pharmacokinetics are scarce. Notably, root extracts account for most of the reported pharmacological properties. The limitations of the available studies are also highlighted, thereby paving the way for further research and development on this therapeutic plant. • Adenophora triphylla is a traditional medicinal plant rich in bioactive compounds. • Over 130 compounds have been identified and characterised in Adenophora triphylla . • Both extracts and compounds exhibited diverse health-promoting properties. • Current evidence is derived primarily from cell-based and animal studies. • Clinical studies are needed to validate its therapeutic potential.