Eupatorin: A comprehensive review of its pharmacological activities and underlying molecular mechanisms

Eupatorin, a naturally occurring polymethoxyflavone found in a variety of medicinal plants such as Orthosiphon stamineus, Salvia connivens, and Artemisia anomala, has been known for its broad spectrum of pharmacological activities. Due to its presence in a variety of botanical and geographic sources, eupatorin has pharmacokinetic profiles and bioavailability, that impact its biological activity. This study aims to combine and evaluate existing information on eupatorin's antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer processes, in addition to underlining its pharmacokinetic behaviour and comparative performance to other flavonoids and standard treatment drugs. Eupatorin has potent antioxidant effects as it modulates mitochondrial NADH-oxidase and stabilizes 15-LOX, resulting in reduced oxidative stress. It inhibits proinflammatory mediators like NF-κB, COX-2, and IL-6, creating an unfavorable environment for tumor growth. In parallel, it exhibits specific cytotoxicity by inhibiting PDIA3, inducing apoptosis, and impairing both angiogenic and metastatic signaling. While these antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties suggest potential preventive roles, such chemopreventive effects remain purely hypothetical and are not yet supported by in vivo evidence. By regulating oxidative stress, inflammation, and oncogenic signaling pathways, eupatorin acts as both a protective and therapeutic agent. This study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of eupatorin's multifaceted biological potential and growing clinical relevance as a lead molecule for future drug development and therapeutic applications. It combines biochemical, pharmacological, and comparative research findings to highlight its translational significance in cancer management.