Artemisia annua: Illuminating the Spectrum of Pharmacological Wonders

Authors

  • Vasanthkumar Sankar Sangeetha *

    Department of Plantation, Spices, Medicinal and Aromatic Crops, College of Horticulture, Anantharajupeta, Dr YSR

    Horticultural University, Andhra Pradesh. 516105 India.
  • Yazhini Saravanakumar Padmavathi

    Department of Fruit Science, Horticultural College & Research Institute, Periyakulam. Tamil Nadu.625604 India.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.55121/fds.v2i1.421

Keywords:

Artemisia annua, Artemisinin, Malaria , Pharmacology, Bioactive Compounds, Sweet Wormwood

Abstract

Artemisia annua L., commonly called sweet wormwood, is famous for its therapeutic benefits gained from artemisinin and its rich phytochemicals. This review investigates flavonoids, such as quercetin, phenolic acids such as caffeic acid, monoterpenes like camphor, sesquiterpenes, coumarins, and essential oils, which support its roles as an antiparasitic, anticancer, antimicrobial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antihypertensive, antidiabetic, hepatoprotective and insect-repellent plant. Mechanisms include the generation of reactive oxygen species, disruption of microbial and parasitic functioning, modification of pathways (such as those controlled by NF-κB, COX/LOX, or JAK-STAT), and induction of cancer cell apoptosis through the transferrin receptor system. Artemisia annua is helpful in treating leishmaniasis, schistosomiasis and cancers by disrupting mitochondrial pathways and angiogenesis. Its oils are effective against Staphylococcus aureus and help keep pests away. Ionic liquids, nanoformulations and metabolic engineering, especially using the CRISPR/Cas9 system, greatly enhance the production and delivery of artemisinin. This review outlines the major phytochemicals, functions and usefulness of Artemisia annua, emphasizing that it is low in toxicity and can be used sustainably. Future investigations, including molecular docking, omics studies, and clinical trials, aim to overcome resistance and develop new treatments for infections, cancer, and inflammation.

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Vol. 2 No. 1 (January 2025)

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