A REVIEW ON DODONAEA VISCOSA

Dodonaea viscosa (L.) Jacq., a member of the Sapindaceae family, is an important medicinal shrub widely distributed in tropical and subtropical regions. It has been extensively used in traditional medicine for the treatment of fever, wounds, inflammation, rheumatism, gastrointestinal disorders, skin diseases, and various infections. The plant is rich in biologically active phytochemicals, including flavonoids, terpenoids, saponins, tannins, steroids, phenolic compounds, and essential oils, which contribute to its diverse pharmacological properties. Phytochemical evaluation using Soxhlet extraction and High-Performance Thin-Layer Chromatography (HPTLC) confirms the presence of several bioactive constituents, particularly flavonoids. Experimental studies have demonstrated significant antibacterial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, wound-healing, hepatoprotective, antidiabetic, antiulcer, anthelmintic, antidiarrheal, analgesic, anticonvulsant, and anticancer activities. Recent research also highlights the potential of Dodonaea viscosa-derived nanoparticles in enhancing therapeutic efficacy. Although substantial preclinical evidence supports its traditional use, further investigations, including toxicity evaluation, clinical trials, and isolation of active compounds, are required to establish its safety and therapeutic potential. Overall, Dodonaea viscosa represents a promising source of novel phytopharmaceuticals and warrants continued research for future drug development.