Important insights from the antimicrobial activity of Calotropis procera

Abstract Calotropis procera (family Apocynaceae) is a valuable medicinal plant as it contains many valuable phytochemicals such as glycosides (mostly cardenolides), flavonoids, triterpenes, alkaloids, steroids, saponins, proteins and enzymes. Multiparous biological activities such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anticancer, wound healing and wideranging antimicrobial activities of C. procera have been well investigated and reported. The main aim of this review was to present the encompassing information regarding antimicrobial activities of C. procera latex, different crude extracts and some isolated compounds which have been tested for antimicrobial property. Comprehensive data extracted from earlier as well as recently published original articles regarding antibacterial, antifungal, anti-protozoal and antiviral properties of C. procera were discussed and summarised in tabular forms. The compiled data comprised of plant parts, geographical origin, type of tested extracts / fractions, test model, used doses, tested microorganisms, obtained results and relevant references. In addition, the isolated antimicrobial pure compounds of C procera are also discussed in a separate section. The analysis and information presented in this review identified the existing critical knowledge gaps in the research and also explored the future perspectives and further research opportunities of C. procera.