Ethnopharmacology, chemical constituents, and biological activities of Khaya senegalensis (Desr.) A. Juss a forest plant with multi-purpose applications

Khaya senegalensis (Desr.) A. Juss. is a valuable medicinal plant with various pharmacological and therapeutic properties. Khaya senegalensis has been reportedly used in treating patients with urinary infections, diarrhea, and inflammation. It also has been used for the treatment of liver and kidney diseases. The chemical studies of the plant have revealed that various parts of the plant contain alkaloids, carbohydrates, proteins and amino acids, saponins, glycosides, quinones, flavonoids, terpenoids, etc. Various studies have shown that Khaya senegalensis plays a role in the prevention of cardiovascular disease, lowering blood glucose and serum lipid, decreasing blood pressure and strengthening the heart. This herb has anti-bacterial, anti-malaria, anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory effects. The present review, therefore, revealed that Khaya senegalensis is an important medicinal plant due to its traditional uses for the treatment of several diseases and the presence of many important bioactive compounds which have been implicated in the various pharmacological properties of the plant. Further experimental studies are needed to fully validate the medicinal properties.