Sphagneticola trilobata (L.) Pruski: An updated exploration of its traditional applications, taxonomy, phytochemical profile and pharmacological properties

• Published in: South African journal of botany 2024-11, Vol.174, p.183-207
• Main Authors: Ali, Manar T., Al-Mahdy, Dalia A., Fishawy, Ahlam M.El, Otify, Asmaa M.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Antimicrobial; Cytotoxic activity; Flavonoids; Pharmacological activities; Phytochemical constituents; Sphagneticola trilobata; Terpenoids; Wedelia trilobata; Wound healing
• ISSN: 0254-6299
• DOI: 10.1016/j.sajb.2024.08.060

•Sphagneticola trilobata taxonomy, phytochemistry & pharmacology were explored.•Taxonomy found multiple changes across Acmella, Wedelia & Sphagneticola genera.•Phytochemistry reveals rich terpenoid content especially diterpenoids in the plant.•Pharmacological reports show good wound healing, antioxidant & cytotoxic activity.•The plant's antivenom activity & its impact on fertility require more investigation. Sphagneticola trilobata, one of the ornamental creeping plants, belongs to family Asteraceae. This species has undergone several classification changes including, Compalaya, Acmella, Wedelia, and finally was officially classified as Sphagneticola in 1996. The plant holds significant importance in various traditional medicinal systems such as Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine for addressing a multitude of ailments. Therefore, excessive studies and research were performed to evaluate the phytochemical constituents and biological activities. Besides, the plant has been utilized recently in the green synthesis field, showing promising results. Hence, this paper aims to explore the taxonomy of Sphagneticola trilobata and provides comprehensive insights into its phytochemistry including terpenoids, sterols, phenolic compounds, and essential oil which were identified or isolated from different organs of the plant. Moreover, pharmacological properties were carefully examined. Specifically, it delves into its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, wound healing, antimicrobial, and cytotoxic characteristics. Furthermore, the review will explore the plant's role in green synthesis, reflecting a contemporary global trend. Finally, we aim to identify critical knowledge gaps, paving the way for future scientific exploration.