Cardiospermum halicacabum: A Scoping Review on its Phytoactives, Neuroprotective, Anti-Inflammatory, and Antioxidant Potential

Introduction: Cardiospermum halicacabum, commonly known as balloon vine or love in a puff, is a medicinal plant recognized for its diverse phytoactive compounds. This plant contains various bioactive constituents, including alkaloids like cardiospermin, flavonoids such as quercetin, and triterpenoids, which contribute to its therapeutic properties. This scoping review presents current literature on the neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant potentials of Cardiospermum halicacabum, along with preclinical findings, patent reports, and commercially accessible formulations and nanoformulations. Method: This scoping review was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA-ScR guidelines. A comprehensive search of Web of Science, PubMed, Embase, Medline, Google Scholar, and Google Patents was conducted (2008–2024) using keywords such as Cardiospermum halicacabum, balloon vine, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective. Only English-language, peer-reviewed articles, patents, and commercially available formulations were included. Studies unrelated to the plant’s neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, or antioxidant mechanisms were excluded. Screening, data extraction, and critical appraisal were performed independently by three reviewers. Result: Studies suggest that Cardiospermum halicacabum exhibits significant neuroprotective effects, potentially due to its antioxidant activity, which protects neuronal cells from oxidative stressinduced damage. The plant's anti-inflammatory properties are well-documented, indicating efficacy in reducing inflammation through mechanisms that modulate cytokine production and inhibit inflammatory pathways. Its antioxidant constituents scavenge free radicals, preventing oxidative damage to cells and tissues that extends its potential applications in managing oxidative stressrelated disorders. Discussion: The findings highlight the promising therapeutic potential of Cardiospermum halicacabum in neuroprotection, anti-inflammatory responses, and oxidative stress management. While preclinical studies support its efficacy, further research, including clinical trials, is required to confirm its pharmacological benefits and optimize its therapeutic applications. The development of nanoformulations suggests an advanced approach to enhancing bioavailability and targeted drug delivery. Conclusion: Cardiospermum halicacabum shows promise as a multifaceted therapeutic agent, particularly in neurological and inflammatory conditions. Due to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties, Cardiospermum halicacabum can be considered a potential neuroprotective agent. While preclinical data are encouraging, further clinical trials are necessary to validate its efficacy and safety for human use. Medicinal potential.