Critical review on Rumex dentatus L. a strong pharmacophore and the future medicine: Pharmacology, phytochemical analysis and traditional uses

OBJECTIVES: Rumex dentatus L. (polygonaceae) is one of the most important species of genus Rumex widely utilized for the treatment of various human diseases. Most parts of the plant species like leaves, shoots and roots are found to be rich in many pharmacologically important bioactive constituents that are useful against many diseases like acariasis, eczema, diarrhea, constipation, diuretic, astringent, refrigerants and various types of skin diseases. The main aim of the presented review is to highlight and document research findings carried out by different research groups on Rumex dentatus, like pharmacological potential, phytochemistry investigations based on presence of phytoconstituents, traditional uses and economic importance till date. The information so collected and documented will become available to researchers, scientists and botanists to explore the medicinal benefits of this prized herb for the assistance of mankind which in turn will open up new opportunities for more organized and collective research efforts towards utilization and scientific validation of its pharmacological potential. METHODS: In-vitro and in-vivo preclinical animal studies have been included in detail. The reports and results have been taken from Scopus, Google Scholar, Web of Science, PubMed and Science Direct, Research gate, Articles & Advice, databases. Plant taxonomy studies were taken and confirmed from the available databases. “The Plant List”, and “Mansfeld's Encyclopedia”. Additional information on traditional uses, botany were obtained from published books. KEY FINDINGS: From results and findings, it has been concluded that Rumex dentatus is a rich source of secondary metabolites such as flavonoids, anthraquinones, phenolics, phytosterols, phytoesteryl esters etc. The bactericidal, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anti-tumor and anti-dermatitis properties of Rumex dentatus have been attributed due to the presence of these phytochemicals. In this review, we present a critical account of its habitat, morphology, phyto-constituent profile, pharmacology and traditional uses, which will provide a source of information to the researchers for further studies. CONCLUSIONS: The disclosed review endorses that Rumex dentatus emerged a unique source of Endocrocin, Emodin, Emodin-glycoside, Chrysophenol-glycoside, Quercetin, Helonioside-A and a number of other important bioactive compounds. These isolated compounds have been found to be active against cancer, inflammation, tumor, dermatitis, acariasis, eczema and various bacterial infections, thus providing new insights for further promising investigations on isolated compounds. In addition, Rumex dentatus was found as an excellent traditional medicine against many cutaneous disorders. Taking into account the astounding pharmacological properties of Rumex dentatus in consideration, the plant species is a library of bio-active compounds with a strong biological profile, therefore needs an attention of botanical community around the globe to improve its growth for medicinal uses and commit to broaden research in this field for its proper utilization and scientific exploitation.