Nyctanthes arbor-tristis Linn.: A Review on its Traditional Uses, Phytochemistry, Pharmacological Activities, and Toxicity

Background: Nyctanthes arbor-tristis Linn. (Oleaceae) is a traditional therapeutic plant, highly used in Ayurveda for a wide range of activities, such as anthelmintic, antipyretic, laxative, rheumatism, skin ailments, and sedative. Aims of the Review: This review aims to furnish up-to-date details on botanical characterization, geographical distribution, traditional uses, phytochemical constituents, pharmacological activities, and toxicity of Nyctanthes arbor-tristis Linn. with the exploitation of future research on more curative treatments as well. Methods: The available information was reviewed using different e-tools, including PubMed (National Library of Medicine), ScienceDirect, Wiley, Elsevier, and Springer. The scientific name is verified by 'The Plant 'List' (www.theplantlist.org) and 'Kew Royal Botanic 'Gardens' (mpns.kew.org). Results: Crude extracts and isolated compounds of Nyctanthes arbor-tristis Linn. have been found pharmacologically active as hepatoprotective, anti-leishmaniasis, antiviral, antifungal, antipyretic, antihistaminic, antimalarial, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities; it was widely for intermittent fevers and arthritis treatment. The major classes of biologically active compounds are their iridoid, glucosides, essential oils, hydrocarbons, alkaloids, benzofurans, cyclohexylethanoid, fatty acids, sterols, and terpenoid. Conclusion: Phytochemical studies and Nyctanthes arbour-tristis Linn's pharmacological activities indicated it as a potential medicinal plant for various ailments. However, more research is crucial to investigate the mode of action of the plant's bioactive constituents and its therapeutic potential.