# Phytochemistry, Ethnopharmacology, and Pharmacology of Lessertia frutescens (Cancer Bush): A Comprehensive Review

## TL;DR

This review explores the chemical composition and health benefits of Lessertia frutescens, a South African plant used traditionally for cancer and other diseases.

## Contribution

The paper provides a comprehensive review of the phytochemistry and pharmacological effects of L. frutescens, highlighting its potential for new therapies.

## Key findings

- L. frutescens contains metabolites like flavonoid glycosides and saponins with potential therapeutic effects.
- The plant shows anti-cancer, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties in various studies.
- It has potential for developing complementary therapies for diseases like cancer and diabetes.

## Abstract

Lessertia frutescens (L.) Goldblatt & J.C.Manning (synonym Sutherlandia frutescens), commonly known as cancer bush, is one of the most prominently used South African medicinal plants, with a rich history of traditional uses among indigenous communities. Its phytochemical profile showed different metabolites such as amino acids, fatty acids, sugars, flavonoid glycosides, cycloartenol glycosides, and oleanane-type saponins. Moreover, several research studies have highlighted the promising therapeutic effects of L. frutescens in combating various cancer cell lines. Additionally, the plant demonstrated potent immunomodulatory, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, neuroprotective, antistress, and antimicrobial activities. These research findings highlight L. frutescens as a promising candidate for the development of new or complementary therapies for a range of diseases and conditions. This review analyses the chemical and biological properties of L. frutescens based on 154 articles identified through SciFinder. Of these, 78 articles, including two patents, met the inclusion criteria and were reviewed. Studies focused on agriculture and horticulture were excluded as they fell outside the scope of this research.