An update review on Hibiscus rosa sinensis phytochemistry and medicinal uses Original paper

What was reviewed?

This comprehensive review article examined the phytochemistry and medicinal uses of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis, a widely distributed ornamental and medicinal plant from the Malvaceae family. The review summarized the plant’s botanical characteristics, chemical constituents across various parts (flowers, leaves, stems, roots), and a wide range of pharmacological activities reported in preclinical studies. The article highlighted key bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, tannins, terpenoids, saponins, and alkaloids, and detailed their roles in antioxidant, antibacterial, antifungal, anticancer, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, wound healing, antifertility, neuroprotective, cardioprotective, and other effects. Toxicity studies and gaps for future research were also discussed.

Who was reviewed?

The review synthesized findings from numerous in vitro, in vivo, and some clinical studies involving different experimental models, including various bacterial and fungal strains, cancer cell lines, diabetic and hypertensive animal models, and rat/mouse models for reproductive and neurological studies. Human clinical trials were limited but included studies on antidiabetic effects and toxicity assessments. The pharmacological activities were evaluated using extracts or isolated compounds from different parts of the plant collected from diverse geographical locations.

Most important findings

The review identified flavonoids (e.g., quercetin and its glycosides), anthocyanins (e.g., cyanidin-3-sophoroside), and other phenolic compounds as principal contributors to the plant’s strong antioxidant activity. Extracts exhibited broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against multiple bacterial pathogens including Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Bacillus subtilis, as well as fungi like Candida albicans and Aspergillus species. Anticancer effects were noted in various cancer cell lines (oral, breast, colon, leukemia), often mediated by apoptosis induction. Antidiabetic activity was demonstrated through reductions in blood glucose and improved lipid profiles in animal models and some human subjects. Anti-inflammatory, wound healing, neuroprotective, and cardioprotective effects were also supported by multiple studies. The review noted the plant’s antifertility effects through estrogenic and anti-implantation mechanisms, consistent with traditional contraceptive uses. Toxicity studies mostly showed safety at tested doses, although some high-dose treatments affected liver and kidney parameters.

Key implications

Hibiscus rosa-sinensis represents a rich source of bioactive phytochemicals with diverse therapeutic potentials, supporting its traditional medicinal uses. The breadth of pharmacological activities—from antimicrobial to anticancer and antidiabetic—positions it as a promising candidate for developing novel plant-based therapeutics. However, the review emphasizes the need for further research to isolate specific active compounds, elucidate mechanisms of action, optimize standardized extract formulations, and conduct well-designed clinical trials to confirm efficacy and safety in humans. Addressing these gaps is critical to translating preclinical promise into clinical applications and harnessing H. rosa-sinensis for modern medicinal use.