A Comprehensive Review on the Medicinal Properties, Phytochemistry, and Pharmacological Significance of Ficus religiosa L. (The Sacred Peepal Tree)

AbstractFicus religiosa L., the sacred Peepal or Bodhi tree, is a culturally venerated species that holdsa prominent position in traditional medicine systems across South and Southeast Asia. Thetree's therapeutic potential is attributed to a rich profile of bioactive secondary metabolites,including flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids, sterols, and phenolic compounds, which vary acrossdifferent plant parts. Preclinical studies substantiate its traditional applications, demonstratingsignificant antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, wound-healing, andhepatoprotective activities. Promising in vitro cytotoxic effects against various cancer celllines have also been reported. Furthermore, F. religiosa plays a crucial environmental role asa keystone species, supporting biodiversity and contributing to carbon sequestration and airpurification. The review concludes that Ficus religiosa is a significant reservoir of bioactivecompounds with immense therapeutic potential, necessitating further research focused onstandardization, detailed mechanistic elucidation, and rigorous clinical trials to translatetraditional wisdom into evidence-based phytopharmaceuticals.