Phytochemical information and pharmacological activities of Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus): A literature-based review

Abstract

This review aimed at summarizing phytochemical reports and biological activities of Abelmoschus esculentus L. from the database sources. For this, an up-to-date search was made in the PubMed, Science Direct, MedLine, Scopus, and Google Scholar. The findings suggest that A. esculentus contains various nutrients and important phytochemicals. It possesses a number of important biological activities, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory, antibacterial, anticancer, antidiabetic, organ protective, and neuropharmacological activities. Moreover, the plant also has lipid-lowering, trypsin inhibitory, hemagglutinating, antiadhesive, and antifatigue activities. The fruit and seeds are well tolerated in humans and other animals. In conclusion, A. esculentus may be one of the best sources of pharmacologically active lead compounds. More research is necessary on its toxicogenetic effects in animals.

Keywords: Abelmoschus esculentus; biological activities; phytochemicals.