Traditional uses, phytochemistry, and pharmacological effects of Sedum sarmentosum : a review

Abstract Objective This review comprehensively summarizes the botany, traditional applications, phytochemistry, pharmacological activities, toxicology, and quality control of Sedum sarmentosum, aiming to provide a reference for its further research and development. Methods Research articles and materials were retrieved from databases including Web of Science, PubMed, Google Scholar, CNKI, and related academic publications. Key findings To date, 174 chemical constituents have been isolated and identified from S. sarmentosum, including volatile oils, flavonoids, terpenoids, phenolics, glycosides, and others. Modern pharmacological studies have revealed diverse bioactivities such as hepatoprotective, nephroprotective, antitumour, and antioxidant effects. Ten proprietary Chinese medicines primarily composed of S. sarmentosum have been developed for the treatment of liver diseases. Conclusions This review provides a comprehensive overview of the traditional Chinese clinical applications, phytochemical identification, and pharmacological mechanisms of S. sarmentosum, offering insights and references for subsequent Traditional Chinese Medicine research and development, as well as in-depth studies on natural active products and pharmacological mechanisms. Current research suggests that its terpenoid components directly associated with its significant hepatoprotective effects. Moreover, the specific mechanisms underlying its hepatoprotective actions still require further investigation.