Abstract
Background: Ruellia prostrata (Bell weed) is a medicinal plant belonging to the family Acanthaceae and is widely distributed in Indonesia, Malaysia, Brazil, Central America, Africa, Pakistan, and India. Traditionally, the plant has been used to treat pain, asthma, fever, headache, hypertension, diabetes, and to reduce body heat. Recent studies indicate that Ruellia prostrata possesses various pharmacological properties.
Objective: This review aims to compile and critically analyze the available phytochemical and pharmacological information on Ruellia prostrata, and to identify research gaps for future investigation.
Methods: A literature review was conducted using scientific databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, and Web of Science. Published studies related to the ethnomedicinal uses, phytochemical composition, and pharmacological activities of Ruellia prostrata were collected and analyzed. Both in vitro and in vivo studies, along with phytochemical screening of aqueous and organic extracts, were included.
Results: The findings indicate that Ruellia prostrata exhibits several pharmacological activities, including analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anticancer, and immunostimulatory effects. Phytochemical studies revealed the presence of flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids, terpenoids, sterols, glycosides, and phenolic compounds. However, most studies are preliminary, and there is limited information on the isolation and characterization of specific bioactive compounds.
Conclusion: The available evidence suggests that Ruellia prostrata has significant therapeutic potential supported by traditional use and experimental studies. Further research is required to isolate and characterize its active constituents and to evaluate their pharmacological mechanisms, safety, and clinical efficacy. Such studies may support the development of Ruellia prostrata–based therapeutic agents for future healthcare applications.