Phytochemical Composition, Medicinal Applications and Pharmacological Insights: A Comparative Review of Dipterocarpus alatus and Dipterocarpus turbinatus
B.G.A. Eranga
Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University, Werahera, Sri Lanka.
N.D.N. Perera *
Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University, Werahera, Sri Lanka.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Background: Dipterocarpus alatus and Dipterocarpus turbinatus are medicinally important tree species rich in bioactive phytochemicals and have attracted growing interest as potential sources of antibacterial and anti-inflammatory agents.
Aims: This review article seeks to compare the phytochemical composition, therapeutic uses, and pharmacological properties of Dipterocarpus alatus and Dipterocarpus turbinatus.
Scope of Review: The review encompasses published research articles, ethnomedicinal records, and review papers pertaining to Dipterocarpus alatus and Dipterocarpus turbinatus, focusing on their phytochemical constituents, traditional therapeutic applications, antimicrobial properties, anti-inflammatory potential, and additional pharmacological activities.
Methodology: This narrative review executed across PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar to identify peer-reviewed studies in English. Eligibility criteria were established using the SPIDER framework, Scientific literature regarding Dipterocarpus alatus and Dipterocarpus turbinatus was gathered from these online databases and rigorously analyzed, focusing on phytochemical profiles, medicinal significance, antibacterial properties, antioxidant effects, and anti-inflammatory efficacy. A comparative examination was performed to determine the similarities and differences between the two species.
Summary of Findings: Dipterocarpus alatus and Dipterocarpus turbinatus contain a variety of bioactive phytochemicals, such as sesquiterpenes, triterpenoids, flavonoids, phenolic compounds, and oleoresins. These species have been conventionally employed in the management of wounds, cutaneous infections, rheumatism, ulcers, and inflammatory conditions. Pharmacological investigations revealed significant antibacterial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cytotoxic properties attributed to their resin and bark extracts. Comparisons in their phytochemical components indicate similar therapeutic potential, however differences in resin composition may affect their biological activity.
Conclusion: The analyzed findings indicate that Dipterocarpus alatus and Dipterocarpus turbinatus are prospective sources of natural bioactive substances with considerable medicinal and pharmacological significance. Regarding the rising demand for plant-based medicines and apprehensions about the sustainable use of medicinal tree species, these plants may represent promising prospects for the creation of innovative antibacterial and anti-inflammatory compounds with potentially reduced side effects. Additional phytochemical, pharmacological, and clinical studies are required to confirm their efficacy and guarantee sustainable conservation and utilization.
Keywords: Dipterocarpus alatus, Dipterocarpus turbinatus, phytochemicals, antimicrobial activity, anti-inflammatory activity, pharmacological insights