Mundulea sericea: A Comprehensive Review of its Medicinal Properties and Applications

Mundulea sericea (Fabaceae) is a significant medicinal plant widely distributed as a weed across India. While various parts of the plant are utilized in traditional medicine, seeds, roots, and stems are particularly valued for their medicinal properties. This review presents current insights into the phytochemical composition and pharmacological activities of Mundulea sericea. Numerous phytochemicals have been identified from the plant, exhibiting diverse biological activities including antidiabetic, antioxidant, antimicrobial, larvicidal, anti-inflammatory, and anti-allergic properties. Extensive research over recent decades has elucidated the biological activities and pharmacological effects of its extracts. Chemical constituents isolated from Mundulea sericea include alkaloids, terpenoids, proteins, tannins, saponins, phenolic compounds, phytosterols, cardiac glycosides, carbohydrates, amino acids, anthraquinones, steroids, reducing sugars, fatty acids, glycoproteins, and volatile oils.