Author(s): Md Sayeedul Alam, Sohini Deb and Hiranjit Choudhury

Abstract: The genus Smilax holds significant medicinal value, with various tribes and communities globally utilising different parts of the plant to heal many ailments. The ethnomedicinal importance of Smilax species has been documented in the Traditional Chinese Medicine and Ayurveda. The presence of compounds like stilbenes and flavonoids indicates their potential in the treatment of cancers, neurodegenerative disorders, and cardiovascular diseases. Although the genus has high importance, the medicinal potential of many species remains unexplored. In this study, we focussed on the ethnobotanical uses, phytochemical profiles, and pharmacological attributes of three Indian species of Smilax: S. ovalifolia, S. aspera, and S. wightii. Existing literature of these species was extensively studied, analysed and organised into tables for clarity. This review highlights the medicinal potential of these species in treating ailments like jaundice, rheumatism, arthritis, diarrhoea, tuberculosis etc. There is a dire need for more detailed investigations into the pharmacologically active components of Smilax species, which could facilitate advancements in clinical medicine and drug development.

DOI: 10.22271/flora.2025.v13.i3a.989