Vegetos
(An International Journal of Plant Research & Biotechnology)
Urena lobata L. (Malvaceae): traditional use, phytochemical composition, and pharmacological potential–an updated mini review
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Huyen Pham Van, Hanh Tran Thi Ngoc, Hien Nguyen Thi Thu, Duyen Nguyen Huu Huong, Thuan Nguyen Thi Dieu, Phan Nguyen Huu Toan, Hoi Quach Van
Review Articles | Published: 19 January, 2026
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Keywords: n Urena lobatan , Traditional use, Phytochemistry, Pharmacological activity
Abstract
The Malvaceae family is a significant plant family, not only in terms of economic value, with genera such as Gossypium, Hibiscus, Malva, and Urena, but also for its contributions to traditional medicine and as a food source. Among them, Urena lobata stands out for its substantial benefits to the community, offering economic, medicinal, and nutritional value. Economically, the plant produces durable and environmentally friendly fiber. Historically, it has served as a famine food for African communities and is also considered a safe and nutritious feed for livestock. The most remarkable contribution of Urena lobata lies in its medicinal properties. Traditional remedies have used this plant to treat digestive disorders, colds, asthma, and even as a contraceptive. Scientific studies have investigated its phytochemical composition, revealing a diverse range of compounds, including flavonoids, lignans, megastigmane, sterols, phenolics, and alkaloids. Researches have further validated several traditional medicinal uses through biological activity studies, demonstrating antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, antifertility, antidepressant, and antidiarrheal properties. This review further consolidates and expands on new aspects regarding the traditional uses, phytochemical composition, and pharmacological activities of U. lobata, while highlighting its potential for effective utilization in the future.
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Author Information
Department of Natural Compounds, Institute of Life Sciences, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology (VAST), Dalat, Vietnam