Exploring the Therapeutic Role of Senna Occidentalis in Cardiometabolic Diseases: A Systematic Review
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Abstract
Introduction: Cardiometabolic diseases, including diabetes mellitus, obesity, hypertension, and dyslipidaemia, constitute a major global public health challenge due to their increasing prevalence and associated morbidity and mortality. Medicinal plants have attracted considerable attention as alternative therapeutic agents because of their affordability, accessibility, and multi-target pharmacological properties. Senna occidentalis (L.) Link is a medicinal plant traditionally used in many African and Asian communities for the management of metabolic and inflammatory disorders.
Objective: This systematic review aimed to evaluate the therapeutic potential of Senna occidentalis in the management of cardiometabolic diseases, with emphasis on its phytochemical composition, pharmacological activities, mechanisms of action, efficacy, and safety profile.
Materials and Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar databases for studies published up to 2025. Search terms included “Senna occidentalis,” “cardiometabolic diseases,” “diabetes,” “obesity,” “hypertension,” and related keywords. Eligible studies included in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies investigating the metabolic and cardiovascular effects of S. occidentalis. Relevant data on phytochemistry, therapeutic effects, mechanisms, and toxicity were extracted and critically reviewed.
Results: Evidence from the reviewed studies demonstrated that S. occidentalis possesses significant antidiabetic, antihyperlipidaemic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities. These pharmacological effects are largely attributed to the presence of bioactive phytochemicals such as flavonoids, alkaloids, saponins, tannins, and phenolic compounds. Mechanistically, the plant was shown to improve glycaemic regulation, modulate lipid metabolism, reduce oxidative stress, and attenuate inflammatory responses. However, evidence supporting its anti-obesity and antihypertensive effects remains limited and inconclusive. Additionally, toxicity concerns, particularly associated with seed consumption and prolonged exposure, were reported in some experimental studies.
Conclusion: Senna occidentalis demonstrates promising therapeutic potential in the management of cardiometabolic diseases, especially diabetes mellitus and dyslipidaemia. Nevertheless, the current evidence is largely based on preclinical studies, with limited clinical validation. Further well-designed clinical trials and toxicological investigations are required to establish its safety, efficacy, optimal dosage, and potential for therapeutic standardization.
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