Pharmacological insights into catechin and epicatechin from Acacia catechu Wild: Bioactive potential and therapeutic applications

• Author Details:   
• Anand Singh Chouhan
• Pooja Gourav ^*
• Jogendra Kushwah
• Ankita Verma

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Catechin and epicatechin are flavonoids found in the heartwood of Acacia catechu, a plant widely utilized in traditional medicine. These bioactive compounds exhibit diverse pharmacological properties, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anticancer activities. As antioxidants, they neutralize free radicals, protecting cells from oxidative stress-associated diseases such as cardiovascular disorders and diabetes. Their anti-inflammatory effects stem from their ability to inhibit pro-inflammatory mediators, offering potential therapeutic benefits for conditions like arthritis. Additionally, catechin and epicatechin demonstrate strong antimicrobial action against bacterial and fungal pathogens, contributing to their potential in infection management. Their anticancer properties are attributed to their role in inhibiting cancer cell proliferation and inducing apoptosis. This review explores the broad therapeutic potential of catechin and epicatechin, emphasizing their role as natural agents for disease prevention and treatment. However, further research is required to elucidate their mechanisms of action and optimize their clinical applications.

Keywords: Acacia catechu, Catechin, Epicatechin, Flavonoids, Pharmacological activities.