Insights into the phytochemical and therapeutic properties of Blighia sapida

Abstract

Background: Blighia sapida, commonly called Ackee, is a tree species belonging to the Sapindaceae family and native to West Africa. Indigenous knowledge claims that different parts of this plant, such as seeds, leaves, stem bark, root, and fruit aril, have therapeutic properties, and empirical scientific studies have also confirmed some of these claims. This is due to its varied phytochemical composition and nutritional advantages. Hence, this re-view contributes to the knowledge of the health benefits and nutritional and phytochemical properties of B.sapida. Methods: An extensive literature search was performed using many electronic databases, including PubMed, Google Search, and Google Scholar. The search utilised relevant keywords and combinations such as “Blighia sapida,” “phytochemicals of Blighia sapida,” “health benefits of Blighia sapida,” ” Blighia sapida and anti-cancer properties” and “antimalarial properties of Blighia sapida “. Review Findings: This review identified 21 ethnobotanical uses of Blighia sapida from different African coun-tries. About 6 of the therapeutic properties of B. sapida have been scientifically studied. The multiple health ben-efits of the ackee plant, including the anticancer, antioxidant, anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and analgesic effects, are attributed to the presence of functional phytochemical compounds, such as alkaloids, sapo-nins, flavonoids, tannins, polyphenols, terpenoids. Conclusion: This review supports the ethnobotanical use of Blighia sapida by highlighting its nutritional and health benefits. Further exploration of its potential applications in disease prevention and health promotion is also recommended