PORTULACA GRANDIFLORA HOOK.: A REVIEW OF BOTANICAL FEATURES, PHYTOCHEMISTRY AND PHARMACOLOGICAL ACTIVITIES

Portulaca grandiflora Hook., commonly known as moss rose or purslane, is an ornamental succulent plant belonging to the family Portulacaceae. Although it is primarily cultivated for its attractive and brightly coloured flowers, increasing scientific interest has focused on its pharmacognostic characteristics, phytochemical constituents and biological activities. Different parts of the plant contain several classes of secondary metabolites, including phenolic compounds, flavonoids, betalains, terpenoids and diterpenoids. Betalain-rich flowers have been investigated extensively for their antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, while experimental studies have also reported wound-healing and cytotoxic potential. The phytochemical composition and biological activity of P. grandiflora may vary according to plant part, flower colour, geographical source and extraction conditions. Pharmacognostic studies have provided preliminary parameters useful for identification and standardization of the crude drug. Experimental evidence has demonstrated antioxidant activity in different plant parts, antimicrobial activity against selected microorganisms and wound-healing activity in an animal model. Toxicological investigations of aqueous extracts have also indicated a favourable safety profile under the tested conditions. However, most pharmacological evidence remains preclinical, and further studies involving standardized extracts, isolated compounds, mechanism-based investigations and well-designed clinical studies are required. This review summarizes the botanical characteristics, pharmacognosy, phytochemistry, traditional uses, pharmacological activities, toxicity and future therapeutic prospects of P. grandiflora.