Phytochemistry and biological activities of Tetracera species

The species of the genus Tetracera are utilized as remedies for various illnesses and infections including backache, haemorrhoids, diabetes, jaundice, scurvy, cough, and tooth pain. The root, stem bark, and leaves of these medicinal plants display several physiological activities. The phytochemicals reportedly present in the species include tannins, flavonoids, cardiac glycosides, saponins, phlobatannins, terpenoids, and flavonoids. Ethanol extract or fraction of plants in this genus mostly yielded flavonoids with significant antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antidiabetic activities. However, few compounds have been isolated so far from the species, which include pentacyclic lupane-type triterpene derivatives and flavonoids, of which betulinic acid remains the mostly investigated compound. This review documented up-to-date information on folkloric uses, isolated compounds, and pharmacological activities of medicinal plants in Tetracera species.