A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW OF MEDICINAL PROPERTIES & PHARMACOLOGICAL RESEARCH OF GYPSOPHILA PANICULATA LINN

Gypsophila paniculata L., commonly known as baby’s breath and belonging to the Caryophyllaceae family, has long been utilized in traditional medicine for managing respiratory, digestive, and metabolic conditions. This review summarizes existing information on its ethnomedicinal relevance, chemical constituents, and biological activities. Phytochemical studies have identified several important compounds, including triterpene saponins (particularly gypsogenin-based derivatives), flavonoids, phenolic compounds, glycosides, and fatty acids, which are believed to contribute to its medicinal effects. Various experimental models have demonstrated notable antioxidant potential, evaluated through assays such as DPPH, FRAP, and nitric oxide scavenging, largely linked to its polyphenol content. Animal studies also suggest significant antidiabetic properties, including lowering of blood glucose levels, improvement in lipid metabolism, and reduction of oxidative stress, with effects comparable to established drugs like metformin. Furthermore, the plant has shown anti-inflammatory activity by influencing inflammatory mediators and regulating NF-κB signaling pathways. Additional studies indicate hepatoprotective and lipid-lowering effects, supporting its possible role in treating metabolic disorders. Findings from other species within the Gypsophila genus point to additional activities such as cytotoxic, neuroprotective, and anti-obesity effects. However, detailed toxicity studies and clinical evidence remain insufficient. Therefore, although G. paniculata shows promise as a source of therapeutic agents, further investigations focusing on mechanisms of action, standardization, and safety are necessary before clinical application.[1,2,3,4,5,6,7]