A Review on Extraction, Pharmacological Potential and Therapeutic Applications of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis

Review article

Abstract

Hibiscus rosa-sinensis, a prominent member of the Malvaceae family, serves as a significant reservoir of bioactive metabolites with diverse therapeutic applications. Phytochemical screenings reveal the presence of alkaloids, tannins, saponins, triterpenoids, and flavonoids, which contribute to its extensive pharmacological profile. Traditional extraction methods, including maceration and Soxhlet extraction, are frequently utilized alongside modern techniques such as microwave-assisted and ultrasound-assisted extraction to isolate these valuable compounds. The plant exhibits substantial anti-diabetic activity, primarily through the modulation of glucose levels and insulin sensitivity. Apart from its metabolic effects, crude extracts and isolated fractions indicate potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anticancer properties. Morphological characteristics, ranging from ovate leaves with serrated margins to large, showy bisexual flowers, provide essential diagnostic features for botanical identification. Systematic documentation of its taxonomic hierarchy and geographical distribution highlights its prevalence in tropical and subtropical regions. Current pharmacological investigations validate the traditional use of various plant parts, including roots, leaves, and petals, in treating respiratory ailments, hair disorders, and inflammatory conditions. The integration of high-yielding extraction protocols ensures the preservation of thermolabile constituents, enhancing the efficacy of derived formulations. The literature establishes a foundation for the development of natural therapeutic agents and functional food additives, bridging the gap between traditional ethnomedicine and modern pharmaceutical applications