Ethnobotany, Pharmacology and Chemistry of Salvadora persica L. A Review

Abstract

Salvadora persica L., commonly known as the miswak tree, occurs in shrub savannah from northwestern India to Africa. This review discusses the current knowledge of traditional uses, chemistry, and biological effects of this species. The ethno botanical literature reveal it as a versatile medicinal plant used to treat different human and livestock ailments. Several different classes of compounds were previously isolated from various parts of S. persica of which the main groups are Tri-Methyamin, Salvadrin, Chloride, Fluoride,Silica, Sulfur, Mustard, Vitamin C and a small amount of Saponine Tanin. Various types of preparations, extracts and individual compounds derived from this species have been found to possess a broad spectrum of pharmacological effects as well as on different biochemical processes and physiological functions including hypoglycemic, hypocholesterolemic, and sedative, and effects in addition to be against gingival irritation. Moreover, the extracts and preparations from the plant, which are hopefully safe, exhibited various additional biological effects e.g. antimicrobial, antioxidant, antifever, anti-ulcerogenic, anti-caries, antiperiopathic activities. The results of data analysis on the chemical, pharmacological and toxicological characteristics of S. persica support the view that this species has beneficial therapeutic properties and indicate its potential as an effective adaptogenic herbal remedy.