The Genus Grewia as a Source of Bioactive Natural Products: Phytochemistry and Therapeutic Applications

Abstract

Grewia species, belonging to the Tiliaceae family, represent a promising reservoir of bioactive phytochemicals with diverse pharmacological activities and substantial therapeutic potential. These plants, widely distributed in tropical and subtropical regions, have been traditionally employed in ethnomedicine for treating ailments such as cardiac disorders, respiratory issues, inflammation, and infections. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the phytochemical composition, pharmacological activities, and therapeutic prospects of Grewia species, consolidating existing knowledge and identifying gaps for future research. A comprehensive review of existing literature on Grewia species was conducted, searching databases like Wiley Online Library, Global Plant Name Index, and International Plant Name Index. Phytochemical investigations reveal a rich profile including flavonoids (quercetin, kaempferol, naringenin), phenolics (vanillic, syringic, ferulic acids), triterpenoids, saponins, tannins, alkaloids, steroids, and anthocyanins, predominantly isolated from fruits, leaves, roots, and bark of species like G. asiatica, G. hirsuta, and G. subinaequalis. Pharmacologically, Grewia extracts exhibit potent antioxidant effects through free radical scavenging and metal chelation, alongside anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties validated in in vitro and in vivo models. Antimicrobial, antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal activities combat pathogens, while antidiabetic, antihyperglycemic, and enzyme inhibitory actions address metabolic disorders. Additional benefits encompass anticancer, hepatoprotective, radioprotective, neuroprotective, immunomodulatory, and wound-healing effects, supporting traditional uses and highlighting enzyme modulation mechanisms. The therapeutic potential of Grewia species positions them as candidates for natural product-based drug development, particularly for oxidative stress-related diseases, infections, and neurodegeneration. Despite promising data, gaps persist in clinical trials, toxicity profiling, and mechanistic studies via molecular docking. Future research should prioritise standardisation, bioavailability enhancement, and sustainable cultivation to translate ethnopharmacological knowledge into modern therapeutics.