Skin inflammation is a widespread dermatological condition characterized by symptoms such as redness, swelling, irritation, and impaired wound healing. Although conventional anti-inflammatory medications are commonly used for treatment, their prolonged application may lead to various adverse effects. Therefore, there is increasing interest in identifying plant-based alternatives with better safety profiles. The present review provides a comparative analysis of the therapeutic potential of Bougainvillea glabra leaves and flowers in the management of inflammatory skin conditions. Phytochemical studies reveal that the leaves are abundant in bioactive constituents such as D-pinitol, alkaloids, and polyphenolic compounds, whereas the flowers (bracts) are particularly rich in betalains and flavonoids. Evidence from the literature suggests that leaf extracts exhibit pronounced anti-inflammatory activity by modulating inflammatory mediators, while flower extracts demonstrate strong antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. Both plant parts contribute to the reduction of skin inflammation through mechanisms including suppression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, inhibition of inflammatory enzymes, and neutralization of reactive oxygen species. Toxicological assessments reported in previous studies indicate that extracts of Bougainvillea glabra are generally safe for topical application. Overall, the available evidence highlights the complementary pharmacological effects of the leaves and flowers, suggesting their potential as promising natural resources for the development of multi-targeted therapeutic strategies against inflammatory skin disorders.
Bougainvillea glabra, Skin inflammation, Anti-inflammatory activity, Phytochemicals, Antioxidant activity, Medicinal plants, Betalains
- Overview Of Dermatological Inflammatory Disorders
Dermatological inflammatory disorders represent a broad category of skin diseases characterized by clinical manifestations such as erythema, edema, pruritus, pain, and impairment of the protective epidermal barrier [1]. These conditions arise from complex interactions between environmental factors, immune responses, and genetic predisposition. Common inflammatory skin disorders include atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, acne vulgaris, eczema, and chronic non-healing wounds. Although most of these disorders are not considered life-threatening, they can considerably affect patients’ quality of life due to persistent symptoms, cosmetic concerns, and frequent recurrence [2].
The pathophysiology of skin inflammation involves the activation of keratinocytes along with immune cells such as macrophages, dendritic cells, and mast cells. Upon activation, these cells release a variety of pro-inflammatory mediators including tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6), prostaglandins, and leukotrienes [3]. These inflammatory molecules promote vasodilation, increase vascular permeability, and facilitate the migration of leukocytes to the affected site, which ultimately leads to visible redness, swelling, and irritation of the skin.
Prolonged or uncontrolled activation of inflammatory signaling pathways, particularly the nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) pathway, plays a significant role in the progression of chronic skin disorders. Continuous stimulation of these pathways can result in persistent tissue inflammation, epidermal hyperproliferation, and structural damage to skin tissues, thereby aggravating the severity and duration of dermatological conditions [4].
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Sakshi Kharchan
Corresponding author
Dr. Rajendra Gode Institute of Pharmacy Mardi Road, Amravati, Maharashtra
Payal Tighare
Co-author
Dr. Rajendra Gode Institute of Pharmacy Mardi Road, Amravati, Maharashtra
Sagar Ande
Co-author
Dr. Rajendra Gode Institute of Pharmacy Mardi Road, Amravati, Maharashtra
Pramod Burakle
Co-author
Dr. Rajendra Gode Institute of Pharmacy Mardi Road, Amravati, Maharashtra
Sakshi Kharchan, Payal Tighare, Sagar Ande, Pramod Burakle, Bougainvillea glabra: A Comprehensive Review of its phytochemistry and Anti-Inflammatory Potential, Int. J. Sci. R. Tech., 2026, 3 (4), 263-272. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.19482388
10.5281/zenodo.19482388