A review on ethnomedicinal uses, phytochemical profile and pharmacological properties of Tetrastigma leucostaphylum (Dennst.) Alston ex Mabb.

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Review Paper 03/04/2026
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A review on ethnomedicinal uses, phytochemical profile and pharmacological properties of Tetrastigma leucostaphylum (Dennst.) Alston ex Mabb.

P. P. Stephy, Prasobh K. Mohan, Anas Bin Firoz, S. Soosai Raj*
Int. J. Biosci. 28(4), 1-7, April 2026.
Copyright Statement: Copyright 2026; The Author(s).
License: CC BY-NC 4.0

Abstract

Tetrastigma leucostaphylum (Dennst.) Alston ex Mabb. (Vitaceae) is a woody climber widely distributed in tropical and subtropical regions of Asia. Traditionally used for the treatment of diarrhea, fever, inflammation, and other ailments, this species has recently attracted scientific attention due to its pharmacological and phytochemical potential. The present review compiles available literature on its taxonomy, ethnomedicinal uses, pharmacognostical standards, phytochemical composition, GC-MS profiling, nutritional value, and biological activities. A comprehensive review of both national and international literature was performed by searching established databases using relevant keywords to identify published articles. Phytochemical investigations indicate the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, steroids, diterpenes, and fatty acids. GC–MS analyses of various extracts identified bioactive compounds including 2,4-di-tert-butylphenol, fatty acid derivatives, squalene, and 5-hydroxymethylfurfural. Pharmacological studies revealed antidiarrheal, anti-inflammatory, neuropharmacological, cytotoxic, and acaricidal activities. Despite promising findings, further bioactivity-guided isolation and clinical validation are required.

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