PHYTOCHEMICAL PROFILING, PHARMACOLOGICAL POTENTIAL AND TRANSLATIONAL APPLICATIONS OF BOUGAINVILLEA SPECTABILIS: A CRITICAL REVIEW

Abstract

Bougainvillea spectabilis is an ornamental plant with significant pharmacological potential attributed to its diverse phytochemical composition. This review critically evaluates the phytochemical profile, pharmacological activities, and emerging translational applications of B. spectabilis. Extensive literature analysis reveals the presence of bioactive compounds such as flavonoids (quercetin, kaempferol), alkaloids, terpenoids, glycosides, and phenolic acids, which contribute to its antioxidant, antimicrobial, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer activities. Mechanistically, these effects are mediated through pathways involving reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging, modulation of inflammatory mediators, and regulation of cellular signaling pathways.

In addition to pharmacological properties, this review highlights the underexplored potential of B. spectabilis in pharmaceutical and industrial applications, including cosmeceuticals, natural food colorants, and nanoformulations for improved bioavailability. Despite promising preclinical evidence, limitations such as lack of standardization, insufficient toxicity profiling, and absence of clinical validation restrict its translational advancement.

This review provides a critical perspective on existing research gaps and proposes future directions for the development of B. spectabilis-based therapeutics and commercial products, bridging the gap between traditional use and modern pharmaceutical applications.