Amaranthus retroflexus: a dual-edged plant with promising therapeutic potential and toxicological concerns: a review

Ashok Kumar BS*

Department of Pharmacognosy, R.L. Jalappa College of Pharmacy, Sri Devaraj Urs Academy of Higher Education and Research (A Deemed to be University), Tamaka, Karnataka, India

Refer this article

Ashok Kumar BS, 2024. Amaranthus retroflexus: a dual-edged plant with promising therapeutic potential and toxicological concerns: a review. Journal of medical pharmaceutical and allied sciences, V 13 - I 6, Pages - 6916 – 6920. Doi: https://doi.org/10.55522/jmpas.V13I6.6773.

ABSTRACT

Amaranthus retroflexus, a member of the Amaranthaceae family often regarded as an agricultural weed, has emerged as a plant of pharmacological interest. Its rich phytochemical composition, including polyphenols, flavonoids, sesquiterpenes, and glucosides, underpins its potent antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anticancer activities. Notable compounds such as rutin and Amarantholidols exhibit strong antioxidant properties, suggesting potential roles in combating oxidative stress. The plant has shown antimicrobial efficacy against various pathogens and preliminary anticancer effects through cytotoxicity on cancer cell lines. However, A. retroflexus is highly toxic to livestock, with nephrotoxic, myocardiotoxic, and oxalate-related effects causing acute renal failure and significant mortality in animals. This duality of medicinal potential and toxicological risk highlights the need for cautious exploration. Comprehensive research is necessary to elucidate its mechanisms of action, minimize risks, and harness its therapeutic value. With proper management and targeted studies, A. retroflexus could be transformed from a toxic weed into a valuable source of natural medicine.

Keywords:

Amaranthus retroflexus, Antioxidant, Anticancer, Antimicrobial, Bioactive compounds.

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