Phytochemical Composition and Therapeutic Potential of Commelina benghalensis Linn

Medicinal plants are valuable sources of bioactive compounds that
contribute to the discovery of novel therapeutic agents. Commelina
benghalensis Linn commonly known as Benghal dayflower, is a
perennial herb widely distributed in tropical and subtropical regions.
Traditionally, the plant has been used in various indigenous
medicinal systems to treat several ailments such as inflammation,
infections, wounds, and metabolic disorders. Phytochemical
investigations have revealed that the plant contains several
secondary metabolites including flavonoids, tannins, glycosides,
saponins, sterols, and terpenoids. These phytochemicals are
responsible for the diverse pharmacological activities exhibited by the
plant. Recent studies have demonstrated antimicrobial, antioxidant,
antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and hepatoprotective
properties of the plant extracts. In addition, certain bioactive
compounds such as stigmasterol, campesterol, n-octacosanol, and phenolic constituents have been isolated and characterized from different parts of the plant. The presence of these compounds
suggests the potential use of C. benghalensis as a natural source for
drug development. This chapter reviews the phytochemical
composition, traditional uses, pharmacological activities, and
therapeutic potential of Commelina benghalensis. Furthermore, it
highlights the importance of further research in isolating novel
bioactive molecules and understanding their mechanisms of action
for pharmaceutical applications.