Unveiling the Hidden Therapeutic Potential of Epipremnum aureum: A Review of Phytochemistry and Pharmacological Insights

Abstract

Background: Epipremnum aureum is widely recognized in traditional medicine for its diverse therapeutic properties. Recent research has focused on its phytochemical richness and potential biomedical applications, particularly in hepatoprotection and nanotechnology-based formulations. Objective: This review aims to critically summarize the phytochemical composition, pharmacological activities, and emerging role of E. aureum, with special emphasis on its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and hepatoprotective potential, including its application in green synthesis of silver nanoparticles. Methods: A comprehensive literature survey was conducted using peer-reviewed articles, focusing on in vitro, in vivo, and nanotechnology-based studies. Key aspects analyzed include phytochemical profiling, biological activities, and mechanistic pathways involved in liver protection and oxidative stress reduction. Results: E. aureum contains bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, phenolics, alkaloids, and terpenoids, which contribute to its significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Studies demonstrate its efficacy in mitigating hepatotoxicity induced by agents like CCl₄ through reduction of oxidative stress, lipid peroxidation, and inflammatory mediators. Furthermore, green-synthesized silver nanoparticles using E. aureum extract enhance bioavailability and therapeutic efficiency, showing improved hepatoprotective and cytoprotective effects in experimental models. Conclusion: The findings highlight E. aureum as a promising natural source for hepatoprotective agents and nanomedicine development. However, further clinical studies and standardization are required to validate its safety and efficacy for therapeutic applications.