Flavonoids and other constituents of plants from the genus Knema (Myristicaceae) and their pharmacological studies: An updated review

Abstract

Flavonoids are a diverse group of natural compounds extensively studied in various research articles. They are widely distributed in the plant kingdom and exhibit various biological activities, including antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, anticancer, antiviral, and antimicrobial effects. The genus Knema Lour., which contains many species in Southeast Asia, has been traditionally used to treat various ailments. The current review aims to provide a comprehensive update on the isolation of flavonoids and other secondary metabolites from the genus Knema Lour. between 1978 and 2022. It also discusses the pharmacological studies on these phytochemicals, including their effects on nematodes, bacteria, cytotoxicity, inflammation, and acetylcholinesterase. Through these years, 50 flavonoids have been reported from various species of Knema demonstrating promising pharmacological activities. The information presented in this review can provide a scientific foundation for future research on the possible therapeutic applications of Knema species. It also links the plants’ observed biological effects and traditional uses to their chemical characterization. The data was retrieved from various digital databases, including ScienceDirect, Web of Science, Scopus, Wiley, Taylor and Francis, PubMed, Springer, and Google Scholar.