A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW ON PHYTOCHEMICAL AND PHARMACOLOGICAL ACTIVITY OF COMMELINA BENGHALENSIS (BENGHAL DAYFLOWER)

Abstract

Background:
Commelina benghalensis (Benghal dayflower), a member of the family Commelinaceae, is a widely distributed perennial herb recognized both as an agricultural weed and an ethnomedicinal plant. Traditionally, it has been used in the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders, inflammation, skin ailments, reproductive issues, and microbial infections. Increasing scientific evidence highlights its phytochemical richness and pharmacological potential, warranting a systematic review of its medicinal value.

Objective:
This review aims to consolidate and critically evaluate the phytochemical constituents and pharmacological activities of C. benghalensis, highlight mechanistic insights, and identify gaps and future research prospects for drug development.

Methods:
A comprehensive literature survey was conducted using databases such as PubMed, ScienceDirect, Scopus, and Google Scholar. Relevant studies on phytochemistry, pharmacology, molecular mechanisms, and ethnomedicinal applications of C. benghalensis were analyzed. Findings were categorized into phytochemical groups, pharmacological activities, and mechanistic insights.

Results:
Phytochemical investigations revealed the presence of flavonoids (apigenin, kaempferol), phenolic acids (vanillic acid, protocatechuic acid), sterols (β-sitosterol, stigmasterol), terpenoids, alkaloids, and saponins. Quantitative estimations confirm high levels of phenolics and flavonoids. Pharmacological studies demonstrate antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anticancer, hepatoprotective, neuropharmacological, reproductive, and larvicidal activities. Mechanistic insights suggest interactions with NF-κB, COX-2, HMG-CoA reductase, caspase-3, and ROS-scavenging enzymes. However, current evidence is largely preclinical, with limited standardization, inconsistent dosing, and no clinical validation.

Conclusion:
C. benghalensis is a promising medicinal resource with diverse bioactivities linked to its phytochemical richness. Despite strong preclinical evidence, gaps remain in clinical trials, pharmacokinetic studies, and safety assessments. Future directions include standardization of extracts, omics-based mechanistic approaches, lead optimization, and innovative formulations to translate traditional knowledge into modern therapeutics.