A Comprehensive Review of the Ethnobotany, Phytochemistry and Pharmacological Application of Tridax Procumbens

Abstract

Tridax procumbens L. (Asteraceae), commonly known as coat buttons, is a widely distributed medicinal herb valued in traditional medicine for its diverse therapeutic applications. Ethnobotanically, it has been used to manage wounds, fevers, skin infections, and gastrointestinal and cardiovascular disorders. Phytochemical studies have identified numerous bioactive constituents, including flavonoids, alkaloids, carotenoids, tannins, and saponins, which contribute to its pharmacological potential. Experimental findings reveal that T. procumbens exhibits antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, wound-healing, hepatoprotective, antidiabetic, and anticancer activities. These properties support many of its traditional uses and highlight its potential as a source of novel therapeutic agents. This review summarizes the ethnobotanical relevance, phytochemical profile, and pharmacological applications of T. procumbens, emphasizing the need for further studies on its mechanisms of action, toxicity, and clinical efficacy to promote its development as a scientifically validated herbal medicine.

Keywords

Introduction

Character	Description
Scientific name	Tridax procumbens (L.)
Family	Asteraceae
Common names	Coat buttons, Ghamra, Jayanti Veda
Habitat	Tropical and subtropical regions; roadsides, wastelands
Habit	Creeping, perennial herb with slender branches
Leaves	Opposite, coarsely serrated, ovate-lanceolate, hairy surface
Flowers	Yellow disc florets, white ray florets forming daisy-like heads
Fruit	Achenes with pappus for wind dispersal
Roots	Taproot system with fibrous branches
Flowering season	Throughout the year in tropical climates
Part used	Leaves, stem, flower, and root

Fig.1: T. Procumbens

Class of Compound	Major Identified Constituents	Reported Activity
Flavonoids	Quercetin, Luteolin, Apigenin	Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory
Terpenoids	Lupeol, β-sitosterol	Anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective
Alkaloids	Tridaxin, β-carboline derivatives	Antimicrobial, cytotoxic
Tannins & Phenolics	Gallic acid, Catechin	Antioxidant, antimicrobial
Steroids	Stigmasterol, Campesterol	Membrane stabilization
Fatty acids	Palmitic acid, Linoleic acid	Nutritional, antioxidant
Saponins	Not specified	Wound healing, immune modulation
Essential oils	Caryophyllene, Limonene	Insecticidal, antimicrobial

Fig.2: Stem, Flowers, Leaves of T. Procumbens

Fig.3: Mechanism of Action

Fig.4: Anti-Proliferative and antioxidant potential

Formulations and Therapeutic Applications:^19-20

• Traditional: Wounds, sores, and bug bites are treated with fresh leaf juice.
• Pharmaceutical: Extract used in pills, gels, and ointments.
• Cosmeceutical: Used for its antioxidant qualities in anti-aging lotions and herbal shampoos.
• Veterinary: Used as an anti-parasitic wash and on cattle wounds.
• Current research: Polymer-based gels and Nano emulsion for improved medication delivery.

Future Prospects and Research Gaps:^21-22

1. The necessity of translational research and clinical validation- Despite the fact that Tridax procumbens has been extensively studied in preclinical contexts, the majority of research has been restricted to in vitro tests and animal models. There is still much to learn about how these discoveries may be used in therapeutic settings. Its effectiveness, safety, and pharmacokinetic behaviour in humans have not been established by well-documented randomized controlled clinical studies.

2. Extract Standardization and Quality Assurance- The lack of standardization of raw materials and extracts is a significant obstacle in the study of herbal drugs. Geographical location, harvesting period, soil composition, and extraction techniques all have a substantial impact on the phytochemical profile of T. procumbens. Pharmacological consistency and reproducibility are impacted by this heterogeneity.

3. Clarification of Target Pathways and Molecular Mechanisms- The majority of research on T. procumbens reports pharmacological results without delving into the specific molecular or biochemical mechanisms at play. Its connections with certain signalling pathways, gene expressions, and protein targets are poorly understood. To find important molecular targets and comprehend the synergistic interactions among its bioactive components, sophisticated techniques including proteomics, metabolomics, and network pharmacology can be used.

4. Creation of New Drug Delivery Systems and Formulations -Traditional T. procumbens extract formulations frequently have poor bioavailability, low solubility, and restricted stability. With the use of nanotechnology-based systems including hydrogels, liposomes, nanoparticles, and Nano emulsions, contemporary pharmaceutical technologies provide chances to get beyond these restrictions. By improving the pharmacokinetic profile and targeted distribution of its active ingredients, these cutting-edge delivery methods can increase therapeutic efficacy.

5. Conservation, Sustainable Utilization, and Biotechnological Approaches- The necessity for the conservation and sustainable use of T. procumbens resources is increasing due to their extensive but sometimes unregulated harvesting. Loss of phytochemical variety and genetic degradation might result from overexploitation of the wild. Using callus culture, metabolic engineering, and in vitro propagation methods might provide a steady supply of bioactive substances while maintaining natural populations.

CONCLUSION:

Tridax procumbens is a valuable medicinal plant with proven ethnobotanical importance and diverse pharmacological activities. Its rich phytochemical profile, including flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, and saponins, underlies its antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing properties. Scientific findings increasingly validate its traditional uses, highlighting its therapeutic potential. However, further studies are needed to isolate bioactive compounds, clarify mechanisms of action, and assess safety and efficacy through clinical research. Integrating traditional knowledge with modern pharmacological studies may establish T. procumbens as a promising source for novel, plant-based therapeutic agents.                                          

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