A REVIEW ON PLANT OPILIA CELTIDIFOLIA: AN ASSESSMENT OF ITS BOTANY, CONVENTIONAL UTILIZATION, PHYTOCHEMISTRY AND PHARMACOLOGY

The plant Opilia celtidifolia, often known as ironwood or Opilia, is indigenous to many parts of Africa. It has a long history of traditional use in African herbal medicine, and its purported therapeutic benefits have attracted interest. An overview of Opilia celtidifolia’s cultivation, the portions used, and the identification of its chemical components are given in this abstract. The savannahs, dry woods, and semi-arid regions of African nations, including Nigeria, Ghana, and Senegal, are the main habitats for Opilia celtidifolia. Information on its controlled cultivation for therapeutic or commercial purposes is still scarce, nevertheless. Various parts of Opilia celtidifolia, including the leaves, roots, stem bark, and seeds, have been traditionally employed for medicinal purposes. Each part serves specific therapeutic applications, such as the use of roots for wound healing and leaves for various conditions. Opilia celtidifolia contains a diverse array of chemical constituents, including alkaloids, flavonoids, polyphenols, and other bioactive compounds. Opilia celtidifolia is a plant with a rich history in African traditional medicine. It is believed to possess various medicinal properties, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, analgesic, and potential immunomodulatory effects. Moreover, the development of controlled cultivation methods and sustainable management practices is vital to ensure the availability of this valuable plant for medicinal and commercial purposes.