Cape chestnut (Calodendrum Capense (L.f.) Thunb.): Evaluation of medicinal and future pharmacological uses

Calodendrum capense (L.f.) Thunb. is used as an important source of cosmetics and skin treatment products in southern Africa. The present study compiles existing knowledge of the chemical and pharmacological properties, traditional and present uses, and further use potential and applications of C. capense. The fruit, bark, leaf, stem bark and seed decoction and/or infusion of C. capense are mainly used as cosmetics and/or dermatological disease application agents, protective charm, insecticide, and traditional medicines for toothache, skin infections, cough, stomach problems and fever. Chemical compounds identified from C. capense include alkaloids, fatty acids, coumarins, limonoids, saponins, methyl esters and terpenoids. The pharmacological studies on C. capense and phytochemical compounds isolated from the species revealed its antibacterial, antifungal, antimycobacterial, antiprotozoal, insecticidal, antioxidant, larvicidal, antiproliferative and cytotoxicity properties, thus validating some of its uses in indigenous or traditional medicine systems. The importance of C. capense in addressing the health problems as traditional medicine cannot be denied. Several reports on health potential, particularly its uses as a source of cosmetics and skin treatment products are coming forth. Future research on phytochemistry and pharmacological properties of the species are recommended.