2026, Vol. 7, Issue 1, Part A

Author(s): Shinde Priyanka, Korade Sakshi and Korake Pooja

Abstract: Caesalpinia bonducella (syn. Caesalpinia bonduc, Caesalpinia crista), a pivotal medicinal plant belonging to the family Caesalpiniaceae, is a large, prickly, perennial shrub widely distributed throughout tropical and subtropical regions, particularly in India, Sri Lanka, and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Historically, this plant has been a cornerstone of indigenous medical systems such as Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani, and Homoeopathy, where it is extensively used to treat a wide range of ailments, including fevers (especially intermittent and malarial fevers), diabetes, tumors, skin diseases, inflammation, and abdominal pain. All parts of the plant, from roots to seeds, are considered therapeutically valuable. Morphologically, the plant is characterized by its extensive climbing habit, dark grey branches armed with both hooked and straight yellow prickles, and large bipinnate leaves 30-60 cm long. It bears yellow flowers and hard, non-crystalline seeds known commonly as "fever nuts" or Sagargota. Phytochemical analyses have revealed a rich array of secondary metabolites, including alkaloids, flavonoids, glycosides, saponins, tannins, and triterpenoids. Key chemical compounds isolated from the seeds, stems, and roots are cassane and norcassane diterpenoids, such as caesalpinins, caesalmins, and norcaesalpinins. The leaves contain phenolic acids like gallic and caffeic acid. Recent pharmacological studies conducted in vitro and in vivo have scientifically validated many of its traditional uses, reporting significant anticancer, hepatoprotective, antioxidant, antimalarial, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antidiabetic activities. The seed kernels are particularly noted for their anxiolytic, anticonvulsant, and antifilarial properties. In conclusion, Caesalpinia bonducella is a valuable, though arguably under-documented, source of potent bioactive compounds. Further rigorous preclinical and clinical investigations into its specific bioactive molecules are warranted to fully harness its immense potential and develop novel therapeutic formulations for modern clinical use, thus bridging the gap between traditional wisdom and modern medicine.

DOI: 10.33545/27072827.2026.v7.i1a.190

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