A Comprehensive Literature Review on the Phytochemistry and Pharmacological Investigation of Senna occidentalis

Abstract

Senna occidentalis (L.) Link is a pantropical medicinal plant with a rich history of use across multiple traditional healthcare systems, particularly in Africa and Asia. This comprehensive literature review (2010–2025) synthesizes recent advances in the phytochemistry and pharmacological profiling of S. occidentalis, with emphasis on the differential bioactive composition of its leaves, roots, bark, and stems. Phytochemical analyses have identified over 75 phenolic compounds, including unique flavonoid C‑glycosides, along with significant levels of anthraquinones, saponins, tannins, and alkaloids, whose distribution varies markedly across plant tissues. Pharmacological investigations confirm broad‑spectrum bioactivities, including potent antiplasmodial, anti‑trypanosomal, antimicrobial (against bacteria, fungi, and multidrug‑resistant strains), antioxidant, enzyme‑inhibitory (e.g., α‑glucosidase, cholinesterase), antidiabetic, anti‑inflammatory, analgesic, and cardiovascular effects. Despite its promising therapeutic potential, safety concerns—notably dose‑dependent hepatotoxicity and risks associated with chronic anthraquinone exposure—warrant careful toxicological evaluation. The review highlights the need for standardized extraction protocols, clinical validation, and mechanistic studies to translate traditional ethnomedicinal knowledge into evidence‑based therapeutics. S. occidentalis emerges as a valuable source of novel bioactive compounds for addressing global health challenges such as infectious diseases, metabolic disorders, and antimicrobial resistance.