Adansonia digitata L. (Baobab) Bioactive Compounds, Biological Activities, and the Potential Effect on Glycemia: A Narrative Review

Abstract

Adansonia digitata L. fruit, also known as baobab, has been used traditionally throughout the world for its medicinal properties. Ethnopharmacological uses of various plant parts have been reported for hydration, antipyretic, antiparasitic, antitussive, and sudorific properties and also in the treatment of diarrhea and dysentery in many African countries. Several studies have revealed that in addition to these applications, baobab has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antimicrobial activities. The health benefits of baobab have been attributed to its bioactive compounds, namely phenols, flavonoids, proanthocyanins, tannins, catechins, and carotenoids. Baobab fruit is also an important source of vitamin C and micronutrients, including zinc, potassium, magnesium, iron, calcium, and protein, which may reduce nutritional deficiencies. Despite scientific studies revealing that this fruit has a wide diversity of bioactive compounds with beneficial effects on health, there is a gap in the review of information about their mechanisms of action and critical analysis of clinical trials exploring, in particular, their effect on glycemia regulation. This work aims to present a current overview of the bioactive compounds, biological activities, and effects of A. digitata fruit on blood glucose, highlighting their potential mechanisms of action and effects on glycemia regulation, evaluated in recent animal and human trials.

Bio‐fabrication and characterization of nano‐silver using Kickxia elatine plant and its anti‐diabetic effect on alloxan‐induced Sprague Dawley rats — An in vivo approach

“…A variety of tannins derived from medicinal plants help to slow the onset of diabetes and its associated complications by acting on key biochemical pathways and targets 75 . It has been demonstrated that tannins minimize the risk of developing diabetes by improving glucose absorption and lowering blood sugar levels 76 . Saponins enhance the activities of various antioxidant enzymes such as catalases and superoxide dismutase, which is usually lowered in hyperglycemic conditions 77 …”

Natural Extracts and Their Applications in Polymer-Based Active Packaging: A Review

“…In this unit, AAE means ascorbic acid equivalents and DW means dried weight. Mohammed [ 20 ] studied the chemical composition of Adansonia digitata L. fruit pulp, which is important because of its medicinal values [ 21 ]. A total of 18 phenolics and flavonoids were isolated, and the DPPH of leaf MeOH extracts demonstrated the potential of A. digitata leaves as a promising source of natural antioxidant compounds.…”

Bioactive Compounds and Scavenging Capacity of Adansonia digitata L. (Baobab Fruit) Pulp Extracts against ROS and RNS of Physiological Relevance

“…It is widely recognized for its socioeconomic significance for the local populations due to the plant's many useful organs, which can be used for food, or for traditional medicine [1]. The Adansonia genus, a member of the Malvaceae family, encompasses eight identified species spread across numerous African countries [2]. Besides their nutritional importance, the protection of these wild fruits not only contributes to health but also yields economic advantages, as certain wild edible fruits are actively traded in various markets.…”