A Comprehensive Review of the Phytochemistry, Pharmacological Activities and Therapeutic Potential of Bauhinia Tomentosa L. Stem, Root, Leaf

G. Abirami; P. Nandhagopal; T. Aiswariya; S. Anitha; S. Bhavani; D. Harini; A. Yazhini

doi:10.5281/zenodo.21793430

Review Paper | Open Access
Volume 02 | Issue 08 | Article Id IJMPS/260207134

A Comprehensive Review of the Phytochemistry, Pharmacological Activities and Therapeutic Potential of Bauhinia Tomentosa L. Stem, Root, Leaf
G. Abirami* ¹ P. Nandhagopal ² T. Aiswariya ³ S. Anitha ³ S. Bhavani ³ D. Harini ³ A. Yazhini ³
¹M. Pharm, Ph.D., Professor, Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Adhiparasakthi College of Pharmacy, Melmaruvathur-603 319, Affiliated to The Tamil Nadu Dr. M.G.R Medical university, Chennai-600 032, Tamil Nadu, India.
²M. Pharm, Assistant Professor, Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Adhiparasakthi College of Pharmacy, Melmaruvathur-603 319, Affiliated to The Tamil Nadu Dr. M.G.R Medical university, Chennai-600 032, Tamil Nadu, India.
³UG Scholar, Adhiparasakthi College of Pharmacy, Melmaruvathur-603 319, Affiliated to The Tamil Nadu Dr. M.G.R Medical university, Chennai-600 032, Tamil Nadu, India

Abstract

Bauhinia tomentosa L. a medicinal species from the Fabaceae family, has attracted significant interest due to its wide-ranging therapeutic benefits and abundant phytochemical profile. Different parts of the plant, especially the stem, root, and leaves, have been widely employed in traditional medicine to address issues such as inflammation, infections, gastrointestinal ailments, wounds, fever, and metabolic disorders. Phytochemical studies have identified various bioactive components, including flavonoids, phenolic compounds, tannins, alkaloids, saponins, terpenoids, glycosides, and steroids, which play a role in its pharmacological effects. The stem is recognized for its remarkable antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing capabilities, while the root exhibits notable antidiarrheal, analgesic, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties. The leaves are particularly abundant in flavonoids and phenolic compounds, demonstrating strong antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, hepatoprotective, antidiabetic, and potential anticancer activities. Experimental research has corroborated many of the plant's traditional applications through both in vitro and in vivo studies. The therapeutic efficacy of Bauhinia tomentosa is largely due to its capacity to modulate oxidative stress, inhibit inflammatory mediators, and curtail microbial proliferation. This review offers a detailed examination of the botanical features, phytochemical constituents, traditional uses, and pharmacological properties of the stem, root, and leaves of Bauhinia tomentosa. The existing evidence underscores the plant's potential as a valuable source of natural bioactive compounds for the creation of innovative phytopharmaceuticals and emphasizes the necessity for additional research focused on the isolation of bioactive compounds, mechanism-based studies, toxicity evaluations, and clinical validation.

Keywords

Bauhinia tomentosa, stem, root, leaf, phytochemicals, antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, pharmacological activities

Introduction

Bauhinia tomentosa is a medicinal shrub or small tree that belongs to the Fabaceae family (Caesalpiniaceae). This plant is commonly found in tropical areas of Asia and Africa, especially in India, Sri Lanka, and Southeast Asia. It is characterized by its unique bilobed leaves and vibrant yellow flowers featuring a dark maroon centre. Traditionally, different parts of the plant, such as the stem, root, and leaves, have been utilized in folk medicine to address inflammation, infections, gastrointestinal issues, and to promote wound healing.

Figure: 1 Therapeutic uses of Bauhinia tomentosa L

Scope for Review:

The objective of this review is to summarize the botanical features, phytochemical components, traditional applications, and pharmacological properties of the root, stem, and leaves of Bauhinia tomentosa, emphasizing its potential as a significant medicinal plant for future pharmaceutical development.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

1. Root:

Collection and Preparation of Root Extract:

Fresh roots of Bauhinia tomentosa L. were collected from healthy plants growing in Tamil Nadu, India, during the flowering season. The roots were washed thoroughly with running tap water followed by distilled water to remove adhering soil and impurities. The cleaned roots were shade-dried at room temperature for 10–12 days and pulverized into a coarse powder using a mechanical grinder. The powdered material was stored in airtight containers for further analysis.

Extraction Procedure:

About 50 g of root powder was subjected to Soxhlet extraction using methanol as solvent for 6–8 hours. The extract was filtered and concentrated under reduced pressure using a rotary evaporator. The dried extract was stored at 4°C until further experimental studies.

Pharmacological Evaluation of Root:

The root extract was evaluated for antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial activities using standard experimental protocols. Streptozotocin-induced diabetic rat model was used to assess antidiabetic activity. DPPH radical scavenging assay was employed for antioxidant evaluation, carrageenan-induced paw oedema model for anti-inflammatory activity, and agar well diffusion method for antimicrobial screening.

2. Stem:

Collection and Preparation of Stem Extract:

Fresh stems of Bauhinia tomentosa L. were collected, washed thoroughly, and shade-dried at room temperature for 12–15 days. The dried stems were cut into small pieces and powdered using a mechanical grinder. The powdered material was stored in airtight containers.

Extraction Procedure:

Approximately 50 g of stem powder was extracted using Soxhlet apparatus with methanol as solvent for 8 hours. The extract was filtered, concentrated using a rotary evaporator, and stored at 4°C until further analysis.

Pharmacological Evaluation of Stem:

The stem extract was screened for hepatoprotective, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial activities. Hepatoprotective activity was evaluated using carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄)-induced liver toxicity model in rats. Antioxidant activity was assessed using DPPH and reducing power assays, anti-inflammatory activity using carrageenan-induced paw oedema method, and antimicrobial activity by agar well diffusion method.

3. Leaf:

Collection and Preparation of Leaf Extract:

Fresh leaves of Bauhinia tomentosa L. were collected, washed with distilled water, and shade-dried at room temperature for 7–10 days. The dried leaves were powdered using a mechanical grinder and stored in airtight containers.

Extraction Procedure:

About 50 g of leaf powder was extracted using Soxhlet extraction with methanol for 6–8 hours. The extract was filtered, concentrated under reduced pressure, and stored at 4°C for further use.

Pharmacological Evaluation of Leaf:

The leaf extract was evaluated for antidiabetic, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and wound healing activities. Antidiabetic activity was assessed using streptozotocin-induced diabetic rat model. Antioxidant activity was while wound healing activity was evaluated using excision and incision wound models in rats.

Figure 2: Mechanism of action of Bauhinia tomentosa L

Table 1. Ethnomedicinal Uses of Bauhinia tomentosa L.

Plant parts	Major bioactive compounds	Pharmacological significance	Traditional use	Mode of use
Root	Lupeol, β-sitosterol Betulin	Anti-diabetic, Anti-inflammatory	Diabetes, Inflammation, Diarrhoea	Decoction / powder
Stem, Bark	Flavonoids. Alkaloids, glycosides	Hepatoprotective, antioxidants	Liver disorder, Fever, Inflammation	Decoction
Leaves	Quercetin, kaempferol, tannins, phenols	Antioxidants, wound healing	Wound healing, Skin disease, Diabetes	Paste/ Extract

Table:2 Pharmacological Effects of Leaf Extracts from Bauhinia tomentosa L.

Pharmacological Activity	Mechanism/Observation	Therapeutic Significance
Antioxidant Activity	Exhibits strong DPPH and ABTS free radical scavenging activity due to the presence of flavonoids and phenolic compounds.	Protects cells from oxidative stress and prevents free radical-induced damage.
Anti-inflammatory Activity	Inhibits inflammatory cytokines and oxidative mediators involved in inflammatory responses.	Reduces inflammation, tissue injury, and associated disorders.
Antimicrobial Activity	Demonstrates inhibitory effects against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Candida albicans.	Useful in combating bacterial and fungal infections.
Antidiabetic Activity	Inhibits carbohydrate-metabolizing enzymes such as α-amylase and α-glucosidase while enhancing glucose utilization.	Helps regulate blood glucose levels and supports diabetes management.
Hepatoprotective Activity	Protects liver tissues from toxin-induced oxidative damage through antioxidant mechanisms.	Maintains liver function and prevents hepatic injury.
Cytotoxic/Anticancer Activity	Flavonoid-rich fractions exhibit growth-inhibitory effects against selected cancer cell lines.	Indicates potential for development of anticancer therapeutics.

Table: 3 Phytochemical Components of Bauhinia tomentosa L. Root:

Compound Class	Representative Compounds	Extraction Method	Common Solvents	Basic Structural Features	Approximate Composition (%)
Alkaloids	Nitrogen-containing alkaloids	Soxhlet extraction, Acid-base extraction, Maceration	Methanol, Ethanol, Acidified water	Heterocyclic rings containing nitrogen atoms	0.5–3.0%
Flavonoids	Kaempferol, Kaempferol glycosides	Soxhlet extraction, Ultrasonic-assisted extraction	Methanol, Ethanol, Hydroalcoholic mixtures	C6-C3-C6 phenolic skeleton	2–8%
Tannins	Hydrolysable tannins, Gallo tannins	Maceration, Decoction	Water, Methanol, Acetone-water	Polyphenolic compounds containing multiple hydroxyl groups	5–15%
Saponins	Triterpenoid saponins	Soxhlet extraction, Reflux extraction	Methanol, Ethanol, n-Butanol	Triterpene nucleus linked to sugar moieties	2–10%
Phenolics	Gallic acid, Ellagic acid, Polyphenols	Maceration, Ultrasonic extraction	Methanol, Ethanol, Water	Aromatic rings with hydroxyl substituents	3–12%

Table :4 Comprehensive studies for Root, Leaf, Bark of extraction and biological activity of Bauhinia tomentosaL.

Plant Part	Extract Type	Extraction Procedure	Biological Activity	Experimental Model
Root	Methanolic	50 gm of root powder Soxhlet extraction (6 to 8 hrs) Filtration Concentrated (reduced pressure using a rotary evaporator)	Anti-Diabetic	STZ-induced diabetic rats
Stembark	Ethanolic	50 gm of stem powder Soxhlet extraction (6 to 8 hrs) Filtration Concentrated (reduced pressure using rotary evaporator)	Hepatoprotective	CCL4-induced liver toxicity
Leaves	Methanolic	50 gm of leaf powder Soxhlet extraction (6 to 8 hrs) Filtration Concentrated (reduced pressure using rotary evaporator)	Antioxidant, Wound healing	DPPH assay, excision wound model

Table :5 Significant Phytochemical Elements Found in Bauhinia tomentosa L.

Phytochemical Class	Common Identification Test	Observation (Positive Result)
Flavonoids	Shinoda Test	Pink, red, or orange coloration
Phenolic Compounds	Ferric Chloride Test	Blue-green or dark coloration
Tannins	Ferric Chloride Test	Blue-black or green precipitate
Alkaloids	Dragendorff's Test	Orange-red precipitate
Saponins	Foam Test	Persistent froth formation
Glycosides	Keller–Kiliani Test	Brown ring at the interface
Terpenoids	Salkowski Test	Reddish-brown coloration
Steroids	Liebermann–Burchard Test	Green or bluish-green color
Anthraquinones	Borntrager's Test	Pink to red coloration
Coumarins	NaOH Test / UV Fluorescence Test	Yellow color or blue-green fluorescence

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION:

The present review compiles and critically evaluates the pharmacological properties and bioactive constituents of Bauhinia tomentosa L., based on published scientific literature. The analysis reveals that various parts of the plant, including root, stem bark, leaves, and flowers, possess remarkable medicinal properties. These activities are mainly attributed to the presence of diverse phytochemicals such as flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, phenolic compounds, glycosides, saponins, steroids, and terpenoids. Experimental investigations have demonstrated significant antidiabetic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, hepatoprotective, and wound healing activities, which strongly support the traditional therapeutic applications of this plant. The cumulative pharmacological evidence indicates that Bauhinia tomentosa is a potent medicinal plant with multifaceted therapeutic properties. The strong correlation between traditional medicinal practices and experimental pharmacological findings emphasizes the ethnopharmacological significance of this plant. However, most studies are limited to in vitro and in vivo animal models, highlighting the need for advanced clinical investigations, toxicity profiling, and pharmacokinetic studies. Further isolation and characterization of active compounds could facilitate the development of novel plant-based therapeutic agents.

Table:6 A Comparative Examination of Stem, Root, and Leaf of Bauhinia tomentosa.L

Parameter	Stem	Root	Leaf
Flavonoids	Moderate	Moderate	High
Tannins	High	High	Moderate
Alkaloids	Low	Moderate	Low
Antioxidant Activity	Good	Good	Excellent
Antimicrobial Activity	Good	Good	Excellent
Anti-inflammatory Activity	Good	Good	Excellent
Antidiarrheal Activity	Moderate	Excellent	Moderate
Antidiabetic Activity	Limited	Moderate	Significant
Wound Healing	Excellent	Moderate	Excellent
Traditional Usage	Skin diseases, wounds	Diarrhoea, pain, fever	Inflammation, wounds, diabetes.

Future Research Opportunities:

Isolation and characterization of bioactive compounds.
Molecular docking and network pharmacology investigations.
Creation of herbal formulations.
Toxicological and pharmacokinetic assessments.
Clinical validation of traditional medicinal applications.
Exploration of anticancer mechanisms and identification of targets.

CONCLUSION:

Bauhinia tomentosa is an important medicinal plant known for its considerable pharmacological properties. The stem is especially effective for wound healing and has antimicrobial uses, while the root is recognized for its significant antidiarrheal and analgesic effects. Additionally, the leaf shows remarkable antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antidiabetic properties. The presence of flavonoids, tannins, phenolics, terpenoids, and various other bioactive compounds reinforces its traditional medicinal applications and underscores its potential for future drug discovery and development. Generally, the leaf displays the highest overall biological activity, while the root and stem offer complementary therapeutic advantages, positioning the plant as a key subject for phytopharmaceutical research.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT:

The author wishes to thank Sakthi Arul Thiru Amma and Thirumathi Amma ACMEC Trust, for providing facilities to do the working successful manner. We are grateful to thank our DeanResearch and Director Academic Prof.Dr. T. Vetrichelvan, M. Pharm., Ph. D and our Principal Dr.D. Nagavalli, M. Pharm Ph. D., for the kind support and encouraging for the completion of work.

REFERENCES

Joseph A, Mathew S, Kuttan R. Bauhinia tomentosa: A phytopharmacological review. Int Res J Pharm.2011;2(8):12–18.
Govindarajan R, Vijayakumar M, Pushpangadan P. Hepatoprotective activity of Bauhinia species against CCl₄ induced liver toxicity. Indian J Exp Biol.2007; 45:56–62.
Patel DK, Kumar R, Laloo D, Hemalatha S. Evaluation of antidiabetic activity of Bauhinia tomentosa leaf extract. Pharmacogn Res. 2012;4(3):151–155.
Kumar RS, Rajkapoor B, Perumal P. Antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of Bauhinia tomentosa. Asian J Pharm Clin Res. 2013;6(2):45–49.
Harborne JB. Phytochemical Methods. 3rd ed. London: Chapman & Hall; 1998.
Kokate CK, Purohit AP, Gokhale SB. Pharmacognosy. 45th ed. Pune: Nirali Prakashan; 2015.
Rajesh V, Perumal P. Antidiabetic activity of Bauhinia tomentosa L. leaf extract in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. J Ethnopharmacol. 2010;128(2):238–242.
Suresh K, et al. Evaluation of hypoglycemic activity of Bauhinia tomentosa. Asian J PharClin Res. 2012;5(3):68–71.
Kumar S, et al. Protective effect of flavonoids from Bauhinia tomentosa on pancreatic β-cells. Pharmacogn Mag. 2014;10(40): S381–S385.
Anitha R, et al. Antioxidant potential of Bauhinia tomentosa. Int J Pharm Sci Res. 2011;2(7):1792–1798.
Gopinath SM, et al. In vitro antioxidant activity of Bauhinia tomentosa. Pharmacologyonline. 2012; 3:77–84.
Harborne, J. B. (1998). Phytochemical Methods: A Guide to Modern Techniques of Plant Analysis (3rd ed.). Chapman & Hall, London.
El-Shiekh, R. A., Ashour, R. M., Abd El-Haleim, E. A., & Abdel-Sattar, E. (2020). Phytochemical constituents and biological activities of Bauhinia tomentosa L.: A review.
Kirtikar, K.R., & Basu, B.D. (2006 reprint). Indian Medicinal Plants. International Book Distributors.
The Wealth of India (CSIR). Raw Materials. Publications and Information Directorate, CSIR, New Delhi. (Contains botanical and phytochemical information on Bauhinia species.).

Reference

Joseph A, Mathew S, Kuttan R. Bauhinia tomentosa: A phytopharmacological review. Int Res J Pharm.2011;2(8):12–18.
Govindarajan R, Vijayakumar M, Pushpangadan P. Hepatoprotective activity of Bauhinia species against CCl₄ induced liver toxicity. Indian J Exp Biol.2007; 45:56–62.
Patel DK, Kumar R, Laloo D, Hemalatha S. Evaluation of antidiabetic activity of Bauhinia tomentosa leaf extract. Pharmacogn Res. 2012;4(3):151–155.
Kumar RS, Rajkapoor B, Perumal P. Antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of Bauhinia tomentosa. Asian J Pharm Clin Res. 2013;6(2):45–49.
Harborne JB. Phytochemical Methods. 3rd ed. London: Chapman & Hall; 1998.
Kokate CK, Purohit AP, Gokhale SB. Pharmacognosy. 45th ed. Pune: Nirali Prakashan; 2015.
Rajesh V, Perumal P. Antidiabetic activity of Bauhinia tomentosa L. leaf extract in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. J Ethnopharmacol. 2010;128(2):238–242.
Suresh K, et al. Evaluation of hypoglycemic activity of Bauhinia tomentosa. Asian J PharClin Res. 2012;5(3):68–71.
Kumar S, et al. Protective effect of flavonoids from Bauhinia tomentosa on pancreatic β-cells. Pharmacogn Mag. 2014;10(40): S381–S385.
Anitha R, et al. Antioxidant potential of Bauhinia tomentosa. Int J Pharm Sci Res. 2011;2(7):1792–1798.
Gopinath SM, et al. In vitro antioxidant activity of Bauhinia tomentosa. Pharmacologyonline. 2012; 3:77–84.
Harborne, J. B. (1998). Phytochemical Methods: A Guide to Modern Techniques of Plant Analysis (3rd ed.). Chapman & Hall, London.
El-Shiekh, R. A., Ashour, R. M., Abd El-Haleim, E. A., & Abdel-Sattar, E. (2020). Phytochemical constituents and biological activities of Bauhinia tomentosa L.: A review.
Kirtikar, K.R., & Basu, B.D. (2006 reprint). Indian Medicinal Plants. International Book Distributors.
The Wealth of India (CSIR). Raw Materials. Publications and Information Directorate, CSIR, New Delhi. (Contains botanical and phytochemical information on Bauhinia species.).

G. Abirami

Corresponding author

M. Pharm, Ph.D., Professor, Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Adhiparasakthi College of Pharmacy, Melmaruvathur-603 319, Affiliated to The Tamil Nadu Dr. M.G.R Medical university, Chennai-600 032, Tamil Nadu, India.

P. Nandhagopal

Co-author

M. Pharm, Assistant Professor, Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Adhiparasakthi College of Pharmacy, Melmaruvathur-603 319, Affiliated to The Tamil Nadu Dr. M.G.R Medical university, Chennai-600 032, Tamil Nadu, India.