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Botany, phytochemistry, pharmacology and ecological status of Rauvolfia Plum. ex. L. (Apocynaceae) from the Southern Western Ghats: A review

DOI
https://doi.org/10.14719/pst.8577
Submitted
29 March 2025
Published
16-07-2025
Versions

Abstract

Rauvolfia species of the family Apocynaceae (Dogbane family) are a rich source of pharmaceutical compounds. This genus includes shrubs and evergreen trees distributed across tropical and subtropical forests. Five Rauvolfia species are found in the Southern Western Ghats of India namely, R. serpentina, R. tetraphylla, R. densiflora, R. micrantha and R. beddomei. Due to their phytochemical composition, include alkaloids, flavonoids and terpenes. Rauvolfia species have been traditionally used to treat various ailments, including epilepsy, hypertension, snake bites among other ailments. Amongst these, R. serpentina is widely used in traditional and modern medicine as a primary source of reserpine alkaloid. However, the escalating demand for their medicinal properties has led to adulteration practices with compromised plant quality. This review compiles information on the biogeography, taxonomy, morphology, ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry, pharmacology, economic significance, cytogenetics, propagation and adulteration issues of Rauvolfia in the Southern Western Ghats of India. These facets of the review address the challenges associated with exploiting the plant species and provide insights into their current research status in the context of the region's biodiversity and medicinal heritage.

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