Hydrocotyle sibthorpioides (L.) Lam.: Ethnobotanical Uses, Phytochemical Constituents, and Pharmacological Potential

Abstract

Hydrocotyle sibthorpioides (L.) Lam., a widespread herb belonging to the family Araliaceae, has garnered attention due to its ethnomedicinal significance, diverse phytochemical composition, and broad pharmacological potential. This review aims to provide updated insights into the ethnobotanical, phytochemical, and pharmacological profiles of H. sibthorpioides, highlighting gaps in current knowledge and suggesting directions for future research. Traditionally, H. sibthorpioides has been extensively used across various cultures, including Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ayurveda, and Southeast Asian folk medicine, for managing ailments such as fevers, inflammation, liver disorders, cognitive impairment, and skin conditions. Comprehensive phytochemical investigations have identified numerous bioactive compounds, notably triterpenoid saponins (asiaticoside, madecassoside), flavonoids (quercetin, rutin), phenolic acids (rosmarinic, chlorogenic), phytosterols, and lignans, all contributing to its therapeutic effects. Pharmacological studies confirm potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, wound-healing, antimicrobial, neuroprotective, anticancer, antidiabetic, and immunomodulatory activities, validating its traditional medicinal applications. Despite extensive preclinical evidence, significant gaps remain, particularly regarding clinical validation, mechanisms of action, standardized extraction methods, safety profiling, and dosage determination. To maximize therapeutic potential and ensure safe, evidence-based clinical use, future studies should prioritize rigorous clinical trials, detailed phytochemical characterization, mechanistic evaluations, and comprehensive toxicological assessments. Addressing these gaps will facilitate the translation of H. sibthorpioides from traditional medicine into validated therapeutic applications, enhancing its value in modern phytotherapy.