A Brief Review on the Phytochemical and Pharmacological Properties of Aerial Roots of Ficus Bengalensis L. (Moraceae)

Ficus bengalensis, a plant with significant medicinal value, has aerial roots rich in phytochemicals like triterpenes, phenolic compounds, flavonoids, alkaloids, terpenoids, saponins, tannins, and steroidal glycosides. These roots exhibit high ash and flavonoid content, contributing to their therapeutic benefits. They are traditionally used to treat infertility in women and have pharmacological applications such as immunomodulatory, anti-diarrheal, anti-diabetic, diuretic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-cancer, cardiovascular, neuroprotective, and wound healing properties. Additionally, they are used for hair growth, treating vomiting, oral disorders, dysentery, cholera, fever, atrophy, and insanity. The diverse therapeutic potential of F. bengalensis aerial roots underscores the importance of further research and development.