PHYTOCHEMISTRY AND THERAPEUTIC APPLICATIONS OF BASELLA ALBA: A REVIEW

Cancer, autoimmune diseases, microbial infections and oxidative stress are becoming unavoidable threats in recent times. Radiation, chemotherapy, and surgery are examples of conventional therapies that have evolved, but problems including side effects, opportunistic infections, and the evolution of drug resistance remain. Thus, it is essential to develop novel therapeutic strategies that use plant derivatives as powerful therapeutic agents with minimal side effects. Basella alba is one such plant that has several phytochemicals, such as flavonoids, alkaloids, phytosterols, tannins, and triterpenoids, that help treat a variety of diseases. The main objective of the current study is to highlight the phytochemical and pharmacological investigations conducted on the plant so that more pharmacological research can be conducted to investigate its untapped potential. In recent years, the demand for plant-based therapeutics has increased significantly due to the limitations and adverse effects associated with conventional treatments. Basella alba, commonly known as Malabar spinach, is a medicinal plant widely recognized for its rich phytochemical profile and diverse pharmacological properties. The present review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the phytochemical constituents and therapeutic potential of Basella alba based on previously published studies. Various Phytoconstituents such as flavonoids, phenolic compounds, alkaloids, terpenoids, and fatty acids have been identified in different parts of the plant, contributing to its biological activities. Experimental studies have demonstrated that B. alba exhibits significant antioxidant, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antiulcer, and wound healing properties. These activities are primarily attributed to its ability to modulate oxidative stress, inflammatory pathways, and cellular proliferation. Despite promising findings, most studies are limited to in vitro and animal models, and there is a lack of clinical validation. Therefore, further research focusing on clinical trials, standardization of extracts, and identification of active compounds is necessary to establish its therapeutic efficacy and safety. Overall, Basella alba represents a valuable natural source of bioactive compounds with potential applications in the development of novel therapeutic agents.