Tilianin: pharmacological potential, mechanisms of action, and future perspectives in traditional and modern medicine

Abstract Purpose This review evaluates the therapeutic potential of tilianin, a flavonoid glycoside from medicinal plants, in managing chronic diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, neurodegenerative disorders, and metabolic syndromes, while addressing key research gaps for clinical application. Methods A comprehensive review of literature was conducted using PubMed, focusing on studies published between 2000 and 2025. Peer-reviewed articles examining tilianin's pharmacological properties, molecular mechanisms, and clinical applications were selected, with an emphasis on bioavailability, pharmacokinetics, and combination therapies. Results Tilianin demonstrated a broad range of pharmacological effects, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, cardioprotective, and anticancer activities. It showed promise in treating neurodegenerative diseases, mitigating ischemic injury, and regulating glucose and lipid metabolism. Additionally, tilianin exhibited hepatoprotective and renoprotective effects in animal models of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and chronic kidney disease. However, challenges such as poor bioavailability, limited clinical trials, and the need for optimized drug delivery systems persist. Conclusion The novelty of this review lies in its holistic approach, consolidating evidence from in vitro, animal model, and ethnopharmacological studies, while addressing the need for clinical trials and improved pharmacokinetics. This review expands the scope to include tilianin’s effects on neurodegenerative diseases, cancer, and metabolic syndrome. While tilianin shows promising therapeutic potential, its clinical application is limited by bioavailability issues. Future research should focus on optimizing pharmacokinetics, advancing drug delivery systems, and conducting well-designed clinical trials.