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Unveiling the therapeutic potential of Soymida febrifuga A Juss: A review of traditional knowledge and modern research to unlock its therapeutic potential

DOI
https://doi.org/10.14719/pst.5339
Submitted
27 September 2024
Published
08-10-2025
Versions

Abstract

Soymida febrifuga, commonly known as Rohini, belongs to Meliaceae family. It is an indigenous medicinal plant, abundantly found in the forests of India and dry regions of the western Peninsula. According to the JCM Herbarium, the plant has not yet been assessed, but has been declared endangered in Madhya Pradesh. S. febrifuga has been revered since antiquity for its therapeutic and scientific significance. This article represents a comprehensive compilation of available data on S. febrifuga for the first time, drawing from classical texts, botanical floras and journal databases. It highlights the plant’s diverse therapeutic applications mentioned in Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani and traditional folk medicine. Indigenous tribes have long used it to treat conditions including malaria, diarrhoea, skin disorders and as an alternative to Cinchona bark. However, significant challenge lies in accurately identifying S. febrifuga as "Rohini" in ancient texts due to regional variations in nomenclature. Despite these traditional uses, more rigorous scientific research is needed to validate these claims. This review also examines recent studies on the phytochemical, pharmacological and therapeutic properties of S. febrifuga, alongside classical references from ancient Acharyas detailing its synonyms, properties (karmas), rasapanchak and related controversies. The plant contains flavonoids with proven antibacterial, antioxidant and hepatoprotective activities. To ensure its sustainable use, effective conservation and cultivation strategies are essential. Additionally, in-depth phytochemical investigations, pharmacological and clinical evaluations are needed to substantiate its therapeutic potential. Emerging fields such as nanotechnology, network pharmacology and materials science, combined with standardized cultivation practices, present promising avenues to enhance the therapeutic and economic potential of S. febrifuga. This review aims to bridge traditional knowledge with modern scientific approaches to unlock the full therapeutic potential of S. febrifuga, a valuable medicinal plant.  

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