A Review on Sasa quelpaertensis’s Phytochemical Profiles and Pharmacological Activities

TL;DR

This review summarizes the phytochemicals and health benefits of Sasa quelpaertensis bamboo, highlighting its potential as a medicinal plant and identifying research gaps.

Contribution

The paper compiles and organizes the phytochemical and pharmacological data of S. quelpaertensis, identifying research gaps and suggesting future directions.

Findings

S. quelpaertensis contains bioactive compounds like p-coumaric acid and tricin with diverse pharmacological effects.

Pharmacological targets such as AMPK and NF-κB signaling are associated with its health benefits.

Most observed effects are preclinical, and standardization of extracts is lacking across studies.

Abstract

Sasa quelpaertensis, a multipurpose bamboo plant endemic to Jeju Island in South Korea, is used by the population in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, anti-gastritis, and diuretic activities. Studies have shown the potential of S. quelpaertensis against various diseases; its effects include anticancer, anti-obesity, anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral, antioxidant, antidepressant, immunomodulating, and hepatoprotective effects. Several bioactive phytochemicals, including p-coumaric acid, tricin, naringenin, and vanillic acid, have been identified in S. quelpaertensis, further emphasizing its pharmacological potential. Molecular studies have identified crucial pharmacological targets of S. quelpaertensis, such as adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) signaling. The major challenges are that most pharmacological activities have been observed only in the preclinical stage, and that a compilation of its phytochemicals and pharmacological activities is missing from the literature. The studies with incomplete extract characterization or standardization limit the comparability across studies. Identification of active phytochemicals for specific activities and large-scale clinical trials for the majority of pharmacological effects are suggested. This review not only compiles the phytochemicals and pharmacological properties of S. quelpaertensis but also highlights current gaps and proposes solutions for its development as a therapeutic agent and/or supplement against major diseases.

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