Phytochemistry and pharmacological activities of Saponaria officinalis L.: A review

Abstract

Saponaria officinalis is an important medicinal plant cultivated in different parts of the globe for its beautiful flowers. Species is commonly known as soapwort. Central Europe is considered as native place for the species and has been introduced in Northern Asia, West Asia, Northern Europe and America. Plant of the species are perennial, stem erect, branched, leaves ovate or ovate-lanceolate, inflorescence dense cymes, calyx green or reddish, often cleft, petals pink to white, fruit capsules, seeds tuberculate-reniform and numerous per fruit. Indigenous people of different parts of the world use this species to cure various ailments. Traditionally roots of the species have been used as urine remover. It is also used for cough, bronchitis, stomach disorders, bone deformations, rheumatism, pimples, skin diseases, bile disorders, liver problems and respiratory system diseases. The leaves were rubbed on the skin as a repellent and also used as sanitizer, diuretic and in liver diseases. Saporins are ribosome inhibitory proteins and play important role for anticancer properties. Different types of saponins are synthesized by the species exhibit anticancer, antimicrobial, insecticidal and antioxidant properties. The present review is focused on the traditional medicinal uses of species along with phytochemical and pharmacological studies. This review will provide a ground for future research of the species.