A Review: Medicinal Uses, Phytochemistry and Pharmacological Properties of Plants from the Hermannia Genus

Introduction: Medicinal plants play a pivotal role in treating illnesses and modern medicines are still being derived from plants. Hermannia genus is a significant traditional herbal medicine. This review evaluates the medicinal uses, phytochemistry and pharmacological properties of plants from the genus Hermannia genus based on available research. Methods: Studies accessed from online research databases were systematically selected and analysed to construct a comprehensive review of the medicinal uses, phytochemistry and pharmacological properties of plants from the genus. Results: Hermannia species are used in traditional medicine to treat or manage; respiratory conditions, gastrointestinal issues, skin conditions, sexually transmitted infections, and diabetes. Scientific findings also discovered promising pharmacological activities within members of the genus such as antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antidiabetic and anticancer activities. To date, over 30 types of secondary metabolites have been identified from the genus, including the 2 pure compounds that were isolated and tested for pharmacological activities. Further research must prioritize other unexplored species of the genus and efficacy and mechanism of action studies on isolated compounds. Conclusion: The genus Hermannia is important in the treatment of diseases of high public health concern. The pharmacological studies and presence of secondary metabolites and bioactive compounds further validates the traditional uses of the genus. Therefore, the findings suggest that the genus has species that may serve as candidates for novel drug discovery for the treatment of various illnesses. Efficacy and mechanism of action studies still need to be conducted on isolated compounds and other unexplored species of the genus.