Ethnomedicinal Uses, Phytochemistry and Pharmacology of Vetas (Salix caprea L.): An Overview

• Author Information

  Dhanenjay Roy, Sanuj Muralidharan, Atul Kabra

• Dhanenjay Roy, Sanuj Muralidharan, Atul Kabra
• Ethnomedicinal Uses, Phytochemistry and Pharmacology of Vetas (Salix caprea L.): An Overview

Abstract

Salix caprea L. (Goat Willow), a member of the Salicaceae family, is a widely distributed medicinal plant native to Europe and Asia, commonly found in humid environments such as floodplain forests and marshlands. It has significant ecological and economic importance, serving as a raw material for bioenergy, pharmaceuticals, and environmental conservation. Various parts of S. caprea contain bioactive compounds, including flavonoids, phenolic glycosides, and tannins, contributing to its diverse pharmacological activities. This review explores the plant’s therapeutic potential, highlighting its anti-inflammatory, anticancer, hepatoprotective, and antioxidant effects. Studies have shown that S. caprea acts as a potent cyclooxygenase inhibitor, making it beneficial in inflammation-related disorders. Its anticancer activity is linked to flavonoids like luteolin and quercetin, which exhibit cytotoxic effects against several cancer cell lines. Additionally, the hepatoprotective effects of S. caprea L. are attributed to its ability to reduce lipid peroxidation and enhance antioxidant defenses due to compounds such as rutin and catechins. The plant also exhibits strong antioxidant properties by scavenging free radicals and protecting against oxidative stress. Despite its promising medicinal applications, further research is necessary to establish its clinical efficacy and safety. This comprehensive review underscores the significance of S. caprea in modern herbal medicine and encourages future studies on its pharmacological potential.

Keywords: Salix caprea, Goat Willow, Medicinal plant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antioxidant.