Phytomolecules, Pharmacology, and Medicinal Values of the Butea Monosperma (Palash) Flower

Introduction: Butea monosperma, or Palash or Flame of the Forest, is a plant with medicinal versatility. Every morphological structure of the plant has a unique medicinal value. The stems, bark, roots, leaves, and flowers all contain distinct compositions of phytoconstituents with varying pharmacological activities and medicinal uses. The flowers of Butea monosperma, commonly known as “tesu ka phool” or “palash flowers,” possess many unambiguous phytoconstituents with superior medicinal values. The flowers consist of numerous phytoconstituents, among which Butrin, Isobutrin, Butein, Formononetin, Isoliquiritigenin, Liquiritigenin, and Flavone glycoside are the most prominent. Methods: Review articles and research papers from reputable journals regarding Butea monosperma flowers have been thoroughly analyzed. Extensive readings and discussions were conducted to summarize researchers' findings concerning the pharmacology and medicinal properties of the phytoconstituents present in palash flowers. Results: This review examines various types of research that discuss the ethnomedicinal uses of Butea monosperma flowers. Additionally, the pharmacology and medical applications of its phytoconstituents are addressed. Furthermore, the chemical structures and classifications of the phytoconstituents are examined. Discussion: Among several phytoconstituents, Butrin, Isobutrin, Butein, Formononetin, Isoliquiritigenin, Liquiritigenin, and Flavone glycoside were prominently studied, highlighting the medicinal values of the palash flowers. Various researchers have concluded that these phytoconstituents are responsible for the flower’s anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-dopaminergic, anti-neoplastic, and antifungal activities. Despite a long list of pharmacological activities and medicinal properties, the flower has been minimally explored for treating various health issues. Conclusion: The review examined the various active phytoconstituents of palash flowers and their associated medicinal properties. They provide benefits for ailments such as vitiligo and psoriasis, possess anti-cancer properties, exhibit neuroprotective effects, and address reproductive issues. However, the accurate interpretation of the mechanism of the plash flower extract and its phytoconstituents is limited by the absence of pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic research. The review directs the formulation of phytopharmaceuticals.