Phytochemical and ethnopharmacological review of Elephantorrhiza goetzei (Harms) Harms

Elephantorrhiza goetzei (E. goetzei) commonly known as Goetze's elephantorrhiza, is traditionally used as a decoction in the treatment of a variety of conditions such as pain, sores, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), gastro-intestinal disorders, microbial infections and genito-urinary system disorders. On the basis of its wide distribution in south central Africa, E. goetzei has a long history of applications among the different ethnic groups. A total of 23 ethnomedicinal uses of E. goetzei are documented in this study from 62.5% of the countries where the species is indigenous. Multiple classes of phytochemicals including phenolic compounds, coumarins, flavonoids, saponins, stilbenoids, tannins and triterpenoids have been identified from E. goetzei bark, leaves and roots in different investigations. Scientific validation of its diverse uses in traditional medicine has been demonstrated through antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, anthelmintic, antioxidant and cytotoxicity assays of crude extracts as well as isolated compounds from the species. E. goetzei has been widely used as a source of herbal medicine for several years without any adverse effects. In light of its long traditional use and the modern phytochemical and pharmacological evaluations summarized in this study, E. goetzei has been demonstrated to show a strong potential for therapeutic and health-maintaining uses. However, there is need for additional studies on the isolated compounds to validate the traditional uses in human models as well as evaluating the possible mechanisms of action. The present review focussing on the biology, traditional uses, phytochemistry and pharmacological properties of E. goetzei has provided preliminary information for further studies on the species.