Centella asiatica (L.) Urban (Apiaceae): A Critical Review of Phytochemistry, Pharmacological Activity, Clinical Evidence and Prospects for Therapeutic Development

Abstract

Centella asiatica (L.) Urban, a creeping herbaceous plant of the family Apiaceae, has long occupied a prominent place in traditional medicine systems across Asia, Africa, and beyond. Renewed scientific interest over the past two decades has generated a substantial body of evidence on its phytochemical composition, pharmacological mechanisms, and therapeutic potential. This review critically examines the current state of knowledge on C. asiatica, encompassing its botanical characteristics and geographical distribution, the chemistry and biosynthesis of its principal bioactive constituents—most notably the triterpenoid saponins asiaticoside, madecassoside, asiatic acid, and madecassic acid—and the mechanistic basis for its reported activities in wound healing, neuroprotection, anti-inflammatory responses, antioxidant defence, and dermatological applications. The pharmacokinetic behaviour of its key constituents is assessed alongside available preclinical and clinical evidence, the latter of which remains patchy and methodologically variable. Attention is also given to quality and standardisation challenges, cultivation and sustainability concerns, and emerging approaches to bioavailability enhancement. The review identifies significant gaps in the clinical evidence base and highlights areas where mechanistic understanding remains incomplete, concluding with a research agenda oriented towards robust clinical investigation, sustainable sourcing, and the integration of multi-omics approaches to advance the therapeutic development of this widely used medicinal plant.