Butea monosperma: An Overview of its Bioactive Constituents and Medicinal Applications

Butea monosperma commonly known as Flame of the Forest or Palash, is a traditional medicinal plant widely distributed in tropical and subtropical regions of the Indian subcontinent. This review provides a comprehensive overview of its phytochemical constituents and diverse therapeutic applications. The plant is rich in bioactive compounds including flavonoids (such as butein, isobutrin, and butin), terpenoids, steroids, tannins, and glycosides, which are mainly present in its flowers, bark, leaves, seeds, and roots. These constituents are attributed to its broad pharmacological spectrum, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anti-diabetic, hepatoprotective, anti-obesity, and anticancer activities. Traditional systems of medicine like Ayurveda and Unani have long employed Butea monosperma in the treatment of ulcers, wounds, piles, skin disorders, and parasitic infections. Recent pharmacological and clinical studies support many of these ethnomedicinal claims, highlighting its potential for development into modern herbal therapeutics. However, further clinical validation and toxicity profiling are essential to fully harness its medicinal value. This review aims to consolidate current knowledge to support future research and therapeutic utilization of this versatile plant.