Ethnobotany, phylogeny, phytochemistry and pharmacological applications of genus Vincetoxicum (Apocynaceae)

The genus Vincetoxicum , of the family Apocynaceae, comprising over 100 species, has drawn appreciable attention and interest due to its diversity in terms of species richness and potential therapeutic applications. This comprehensive review clarifies numerous aspects, such as morphology, anatomy, phytocomponents, pharmacological importance, phylogenetic clarifications with respect to genera Tylophora and Cynanchum in addition to their traditional medicinal uses. The unique anatomical aspects of Vincetoxicum species reveals its hypostomatic nature of leaf with anomalous secondary thickening on stem parts that offers insight into its ecological adaptation. An extensive examination of Vincetoxicum ’s phytochemical profile provides substantial knowledge on the secondary metabolites that these plants contain, majorly phenanthroindolizidine alkaloids as well as flavonoids and how they contribute to their therapeutic qualities. The review additionally focuses on medicinal benefits that these naturally occurring compounds might serve, emphasizing Vincetoxicum ’s likely contribution to studies on antibacterial, anticancer, and anti-inflammatory properties, among other activities. This comprehensive examination underlines an opportunity for the genus Vincetoxicum to provide novel therapeutic compounds while offering an exhaustive overview of the genus’ relevance in the context of medicinal plant research. Bioactivity-guided approaches should continue to be prioritized and more research regarding Vincetoxicum species should be conducted. Additionally, systematic research on the chemical make-up of these species ought to be strengthened. Graphical Abstract