Review: Dicranostigma leptopodum: A peculiar plant of Papaveraceae

Abstract

Dicranostigma leptopodum (Maxim.) Fedde, an intriguing plant of the Papaveraceae family, exhibits numerous physiological activities, including antitumor, cytotoxic, immune-boosting, antibacterial, antioxidant, insecticidal, smooth muscle modulation, antiarrhythmic, fluorescent probe capabilities, as well as hypolipidemic and hypoglycemic effects. The plant’s diverse pharmacological actions are believed to be attributed to its rich reservoir of alkaloids distributed throughout the entire plant. This review encompasses an exploration of the chemical constituents, pharmacological activities, species distribution, extraction and separation methodologies, and content determination of D. leptopodum, aiming to contribute to its further advancement in medicinal development.