Abstract

FROM STREET TO SCIENCE: A COMPREHENSIVE PHARMACOLOGICAL REVIEW OF STERCULIA FOETIDA L.

Divyashanthi C. M.*

ABSTRACT

Sterculia foetida L., commonly known as Wild Almond or Java Olive, is a tree in the Malvaceae family, widely distributed in tropical regions and often cultivated as a roadside ornamental tree. Despite its prevalence and traditional medicinal uses, it remains underexplored pharmacologically. This review consolidates current knowledge on its botanical identity, ethnomedicinal uses, phytochemical profile, pharmacological activities, and applications in drug delivery systems. Key phytochemicals include sterculic acid (53% in seeds), cyclopropenoid fatty acids (CPFAs), flavonoids, alkaloids, phenolics, and triterpenoids. Pharmacological studies report anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, anti-obesity, neuropharmacological, antidiarrheal, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and cytotoxic activities. Sterculia gum, derived from stem bark exudates, shows promise as a natural polymer in controlled-release and mucoadhesive drug delivery systems. Toxicity concerns centre on CPFAs in raw seeds, which may be mitigated by traditional roasting, though comprehensive toxicity data are lacking. Critical research gaps include the need for standardised extracts, dose-dependent toxicity profiling, mechanistic studies, and clinical validation through randomised controlled trials. Addressing these gaps is essential to transition S. foetida from a traditional remedy to a scientifically validated pharmacological resource.

Keywords: Sterculia foetida, Wild Almond, Pharmacognosy, Phytochemistry, Cyclopropenoid Fatty Acids, Sterculic Acid, Drug Delivery, Traditional Medicine.