Review of Medicinal Plants of the Uvariodendron Genus (Annonaceae) and the Potential for Their Integration into the Agribusiness Strategy in the Democratic Republic of the Congo
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Abstract
Context: The Uvariodendron genus comprises wild plants with multiple therapeutic uses, the valorization of which could
contribute to improving the management of several diseases and their integration into the national agribusiness strategy.
Objective: This study aims to provide an overview of current knowledge about this genus in order to guide future research. Methodology: A bibliographic search of articles related to Uvariodendron was conducted in various electronic databases
(Science Direct, PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Google Scholar, SciELO, etc.), using keywords such as Uvariodendron,
phytochemistry, pharmacology, and toxicology. Results and Discussion: The available literature on plants of the
Uvariodendron genus indicates that they contain flavonoids, tannins, quinones, saponins, alkaloids, steroids, terpenoids,
anthocyanins, etc. These plants possess anticancer, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimalarial, antimicrobial, urotonic, antisickle cell, and other properties. Toxicological studies have shown that U. anisatum (originating from Kenya) is toxic in rats.
However, U. molundense (originating from the DRC) is not cytotoxic, indicating a certain degree of safety. Conclusion and
Perspectives: The results of this study demonstrate that the Uvariodendron genus could be used for various therapeutic
applications. However, clinical studies are necessary to rigorously establish their effectiveness and safety. Additionally, the
integration of U. molundense into the national agribusiness strategy in the DRC can contribute to the country's economic,
environmental, and social sustainability while preserving its biodiversity and medicinal traditions.
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