# A Systematic Review of the Phytochemical Profile and Potential Medicinal Functions of Codonopsis pilosula in Cancer

## TL;DR

This review explores the cancer-fighting potential of Codonopsis pilosula, highlighting its chemical makeup and possible medicinal uses.

## Contribution

The paper systematically reviews recent advances and gaps in Codonopsis pilosula's anticancer research.

## Key findings

- C. pilosula exhibits antitumor potential through multiple targets and pathways with minimal side effects.
- Network computing methods like pharmacology and molecular docking support its biological functions.
- The plant shows promise as a source for pharmaceuticals, functional foods, and cosmetics.

## Abstract

As a valuable medicine and food homology plant suitable for people of all ages,
Codonopsis pilosula
has been used for dietary nourishment and medicinal purposes with high acceptance for a long history. Interest in the potential anticancer functions of
C. pilosula
has increased due to its numerous chemical constituents with diverse structures and extensive pharmacological activities. With the growing interest,
C. pilosula
‐based antitumor traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formulations are also considered as vital intervention strategy for cancer, which exhibit prospective antitumor potential with multiple targets, multiple signaling pathways, and less side effects in both experimental and epidemiological studies. However, the prospective molecular mechanisms and newly emerging research methods in cancer auxiliary regulation require further elaboration. Consequently, this review systematically presents the latest research progress and future prospect of
C. pilosula
and highlights current gaps in knowledge, which facilitate the great rejuvenation of
C. pilosula
for the long‐term therapy use of tumor. Remarkably, with the gathering of the findings of biological evaluation, combinations with network computing approaches, such as network pharmacology, molecular docking, and quantum‐chemical calculations, this review is expected to provide theoretical support and open further research perspectives on
C. pilosula
in biological function and potential clinical efficacy.

Codonopsis pilosula
may serve as a potential treasure trove for pharmaceuticals, functional foods, and cosmetic additives in the future. The available evidence warrants further research into the possible role of
C. pilosula
in preventing human carcinogenesis. This review provides theoretical research and references for profound systematic testing and development in the use of
C. pilosula
in the fields of food and medicine.