Medicinal Significance of Phyllanthus debilis: Evidence from Phytochemical and Pharmacological Studies

Abstract

Medicinal plants, usually viewed as safer, more cost-effective, and more accessible than synthetic drugs, have historically been valuable therapeutic agents for treating a variety of ailments. This review aims to explore the published literature concerning the phytochemical, ethnomedicinal, and pharmacological aspects and highlight the therapeutic potential of Phyllanthus debilis J.G.Klein ex Willd. This species, part of the Phylanthaceae family, is among the therapeutically significant plants that are widely found across the globe. Phytochemical analysis of these species has identified several important phytochemicals, including alkaloids, tannins, lignans, keto compounds, flavonoids, saponins, and terpenoids, which contribute to their medicinal properties. Other key phytoconstituents that enhance these therapeutic properties include ellagitannins like corilagin, furosin, geraniin, isocorilagin, glochidon, phytol, β-sitosterol, sterol glucoside-β-sitosterol glucoside, 2,4-bis (1,1)-dimethylethyl, gallic acid, and polyphenol-coralgin. The pharmacological actions demonstrated by Phyllanthus debilis include antimicrobial, antioxidant, anticancer, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antiviral properties, in addition to hepatoprotective and antidiabetic effects, which can be attributed to its valuable bioactive phytoconstituents. Research available indicates that P. debilis may have numerous health benefits. However, there is a lack of human-based data, making the conduction of clinical trials essential to establish more implications for public health. These findings could serve as indications for the future development of innovative pharmaceutical formulations derived from P. debilis.