Phytochemistry and Pharmacological Properties of Thunbergia laurifolia: A Review

Commonly known as blue trumpet vine or laurel clock vine, Thunbergia laurifolia is a popular ornamental vine in the tropics. Flowers are attractive with pale purplish-blue petals and a yellow throat. Leaves are heart-shaped with a pointed tip and slightly serrated leaf margin. In Thailand, leaves of T. laurifolia are believed to have detoxifying effects. They are used as an antidote for poisons and drugs, including the treatment of drug addiction. The plant has also been reported to have antioxidant, anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, and antipyretic properties. Local herbal companies are producing herbal teas and capsules of T. laurifolia, known as Rang Jeud in Thai. Compounds isolated from the leaves included iridoid glucosides, grandifloric acid, glucopyranosides, and derivatives of apigenin. Other compounds found in leaves and flowers were delphinidin derivatives, and phenolic acids of chlorogenic, caffeic, gallic, and protocatechuic. Current knowledge on the pharmacological properties of the species is reviewed. Properties reviewed include antioxidant, antimicrobial, antiproliferative, hepatoprotective, and anti-inflammatory activities, as well as detoxifying, anti-diabetic, and non-toxic effects.