Artemisia pallens Wall. Ex Dc. (Davana): Phytochemistry, Traditional Uses, Pharmacological Activities, Safety Profile and Future Prospects: A Comprehensive Review

Abstract

Background: Artemisia pallens, commonly known as davana, is an aromatic medicinal herb belonging to the Asteraceae family and is native to India. The plant has been traditionally used in Ayurvedic and folk medicine for the treatment of various ailments and is also valued in the perfumery industry because of its pleasant aroma. In recent years, Artemisia pallens has attracted considerable scientific attention due to its diverse phytochemical constituents and wide range of therapeutic properties. Phytochemical investigations have revealed the presence of important bioactive compounds such as cis-davanone, flavonoids, phenolic compounds, sesquiterpenes, monoterpenes, and sesquiterpene lactones, which are responsible for its biological activities. Methodology: A comprehensive literature search was conducted using electronic databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, and ScienceDirect. Relevant peer-reviewed studies were critically reviewed to compile and evaluate available information on the botany, phytochemistry, traditional uses, pharmacological activities, toxicology, and future perspectives of Artemisia pallens. Results: Available studies demonstrated that A. pallens possesses a broad spectrum of pharmacological activities, including antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiasthmatic, hepatoprotective, antidiabetic, antiviral, anticancer, wound-healing, antitubercular, antihypertensive, antimalarial, and anthelmintic effects. Experimental investigations reported significant inhibition of microbial growth, reduction of oxidative stress, suppression of inflammatory responses, and protective effects against disease-induced tissue damage. These biological activities are mainly attributed to the presence of terpenoids, flavonoids, and phenolic compounds. Toxicological studies further indicate that the plant exhibits relatively low acute toxicity at therapeutic doses. Conclusion: Artemisia pallens shows promising therapeutic and industrial potential; however, further studies focusing on standardization, chronic toxicity, mechanism-based investigations, and clinical trials are essential for its development as a scientifically validated herbal medicine.