Poikilospermum suaveolens (Blume) Merr.: Phytochemical, Ethnomedicinal Uses, and Pharmacological Potential

The Poikilospermum genus, which belongs to the Urticaceae family, has historically been used for medicinal purposes in Southeast Asia. However, its phytochemical potential and pharmacological mechanisms have not yet been adequately investigated. This review consolidates current data on the bioactive chemicals and therapeutic potential of Poikilospermum spp. with an emphasis on Poikilospermum suaveolens (Blume) Merr.

A comprehensive search was performed using the PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, and Web of Science databases. This study examined publications from 2015 to 2025 that explored the phytochemical composition and pharmacological properties of Poikilospermum species. Terms such as "Poikilospermum", "inflammatory", "phytochemicals", "anticancer", "ethnobotany", "phytochemistry", "pharmacological", "antimicrobial", and "antioxidant".

The investigation revealed various bioactive components such as flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids, and terpenoids, which contribute to the antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant capabilities of Poikilospermum. Initial data indicated possible anticancer properties of P. suaveolens; however, additional research is required to validate these effects and elucidate the underlying pathways.

Poikilospermum species, particularly P. suaveolens, is a promising source of bioactives; priority next steps include standardized in vivo studies, toxicity assessment, and targeted mechanistic work. Subsequent studies should focus on clinical trials and more in-depth inquiries into the mechanisms of action of identified substances.