Nyctanthes arbor-tristis: A Multifaceted Medicinal Plant in Traditional and Contemporary Medicine

Nyctanthes arbor-tristis, commonly known as night-flowering jasmine or parijat, is a plant of notable importance in traditional medicine and cultural practices. It is characterized by its nocturnally blooming, fragrant flowers. Traditional medicinal systems have extensively utilized this species for its therapeutic properties, which modern clinical research has supported. This plant, renowned for its therapeutic potential, has been integral to folk medicine for addressing antibilious conditions, gynecological disorders, and liver protection, highlighting its historical significance.This review aims to conduct a comprehensive ethnopharmacological evaluation of Nyctanthes arbor-tristis, with a focus on its chemical composition and pharmacological properties. It seeks to explore its therapeutic potential while identifying gaps requiring further scientific investigation.The review draws on data from credible sources such as PubMed, Google Scholar, and related literature published from 2013 to 2024 using keywords such as Nyctanthes arbor-tristis, night-flowering jasmine, sorrow plant, harsingar, harasingaar, pavazha mattigai, paarijaata, parijathak, and parijatha.The literature reveals that Nyctanthes arbor-tristis contains several phytoconstituents, including steroids, terpenes, flavonoids, phenols, iridoid glycosides, and alkaloids. These compounds, distributed across its leaves, seeds, flowers, and stem bark, exhibit distinct pharmacological activities. Reported effects include anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, analgesic, anti-diabetic, anti-arthritic, cytotoxic, anti-microbial, anti-malarial, anthelmintic, larvicidal, bronchodilatory, hepatoprotective, immunomodulatory, neuroprotective, and wound healing activities. This plant is also widely recognized for its traditional uses and is used by various countries and communities for the treatment of sciatica, arthritis, fever, liver disorders, and parasitic infections. Additionally, various parts, such as leaves, roots, bark, and seeds, are used across cultures for their dermatological effects, sedative properties, and antispasmodic actions. Despite its potential, the existing pharmacological and phytochemical data remain insufficient, necessitating further research to understand its mechanisms of action and therapeutic applications.With its diverse bioactive compounds, Nyctanthes arbor-tristis shows promise as a source of natural therapeutics. However, comprehensive studies are essential to validate its ethnomedicinal applications and understand its mechanisms of action. Such efforts could facilitate the development of effective, low-side-effect natural therapeutic products, addressing a growing demand for alternative medicines in contemporary healthcare.