A Comprehensive Review on Botany, Ethnopharmacology, Phytochemistry, Biosynthesis, Pharmacology, Toxicity, Quality Control and Metabolomics of Coptidis Rhizome

Coptidis Rhizome (CR), referred to as Huanglian in Chinese, is the dry rhizome of Coptis chinensis Franch., Coptis deltoidea C.Y. Cheng et Hsiao, or Coptis teeta Wall. This herbal remedy is renowned for its heat-clearing, dampness-drying, and detoxifying properties. In traditional medical applications, it is frequently employed to address disorders such as gastroenteritis, jaundice, eczema, and various other health issues. This article reviews the latest developments in the fields of CR botany, ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry, biosynthesis, pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, toxicology, quality control, and metabolomics. These discoveries enhance the scientific basis for continued research and utilization of CR in medicine. Currently, over 200 compounds from CR, including alkaloids, lignans, phenolic compounds, flavonoids, polysaccharides, volatile oils, and other constituents, have been identified. Among these, alkaloids are the most abundant and represent the primary bioactive components. CR and its active alkaloids display a broad spectrum of pharmacological impacts, which include anti-inflammatory, anticancer, hypoglycemic, and cardiovascular disease treatments. In recent years, the research progress on CR in plant chemistry, pharmacology, and quality control has demonstrated its effectiveness and provided guidance for further research. This review will provide a reference for the development and utilization of CR in the future.