Phytochemical and Pharmacological Potential of Genus Drynaria (Bory) J. Sm.: A Comprehensive Review

Abstract

The genus Drynaria (Bory) J. Sm. (Polypodiaceae) comprises approximately 32 species distributed across Africa, Asia and the Pacific Islands, representing diverse ecological and climatic zones. This genus has long been utilized in traditional medicine systems, where species are prescribed for the treatment of osteoporosis, bone fractures, tinnitus, inflammation, hyperlipidemia, arteriosclerosis and rheumatism. Phytochemical investigations have revealed the presence of diverse bioactive compounds including flavonoids, phenols, triterpenoids, phytosterols, chromones, furanocoumarins, lignans, tocopherols, fatty acid derivatives, phenylpropanoids and terpenoids. These constituents are associated with a wide range of pharmacological activities, such as analgesic, anti-arthritic, anticancer, anti-HIV, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, antipyretic, hepatoprotective, immunomodulatory, nephroprotective, neuroprotective, osteogenic, thrombolytic, cytotoxic and anti-obesity effects. This systematic review integrates ethnomedicinal knowledge with modern phytochemical and pharmacological evidence, highlighting the therapeutic relevance of Drynaria species and underscoring their potential for future drug discovery.