The genus Cratoxylum: traditional use, phytochemistry and pharmacology.

This article reviews the genus Cratoxylum, a group of medicinal plants widely distributed in Southeast Asia and China, focusing on their traditional uses, phytochemistry, and pharmacology. Traditionally, various Cratoxylum species have been used as vegetables, spices, tea substitutes, and remedies for ailments such as fever, cough, flu, diarrhea, and skin conditions. Phytochemical investigations have isolated over 270 metabolites, predominantly xanthone derivatives (74%), along with anthraquinones, flavonoids, benzophenones, triterpenoids, phytosterols, tocopherols, and coumarins. Pharmacological studies demonstrate diverse bioactivities of Cratoxylum extracts and compounds, including anticancer, antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, antihypertensive, antimalarial, antiviral, antiamoebic, neuroprotective, hepatoprotective, and gastroprotective effects, with notable emphasis on anticancer potential. The review highlights the need for further research on bioactive compound quantification, in vivo efficacy, mechanisms of action, toxicology, pharmacokinetics, and clinical validation to support therapeutic development.