THE EFFECT OF MEDICINAL PLANTS (COMMIPHORA GILEADENSIS, ACACIA TORTILIS, AND ACACIA EHRENBERGIANA) NATURALLY GROWING IN NAJRAN REGION, SAUDI ARABIA AND THEIR THERAPEUTIC AND APPLICATIONS POTENTIAL: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW.

Abstract

Background: Saudi Arabia’s Najran region is home to a rich diversity of medicinal flora that has long been utilized in traditional healing practices. Among these, Commiphora gileadensis, Acacia tortilis, and Acacia ehrenbergiana have gained attention for their potential therapeutic value. Despite growing interest, the pharmacological profiles of these species remain underexplored in modern scientific literature, particularly in the context of clinical applicability and safety.

Objective: This systematic review aims to evaluate the ethnobotanical uses, phytochemical composition, pharmacological activities, therapeutic applications, and potential risks of Commiphora gileadensis, Acacia tortilis, and Acacia ehrenbergiana, with a focus on their role in treating infections, inflammation, metabolic, and cancer-related conditions.

Methods: A systematic review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. Scientific databases including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and ScienceDirect were searched for articles published between 2000 and 2023 using relevant keywords. Eligible studies included experimental, observational, and ethnopharmacological research on the three target species. Data was extracted regarding bioactive compounds, therapeutic effects, and toxicity profiles. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool and Newcastle-Ottawa Scale.

Results: Eight studies met the inclusion criteria. All three plants demonstrated significant anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant activity, with C. gileadensis additionally showing cytotoxicity against prostate, liver, and cervical cancer cells. A. tortilis exhibited antidiabetic and antihypertensive effects, while A. ehrenbergiana showed anticancer and wound-healing properties. However, potential risks such as hepatotoxicity, hypersensitivity, and drug interactions were also noted, indicating the need for controlled clinical studies.

Conclusion:The reviewed species exhibit considerable pharmacological potential, supporting their traditional uses. Nevertheless, their integration into modern medicine requires standardized extraction methods, toxicological assessments, and well-designed clinical trials to confirm efficacy and safety in human populations.