Senna petersiana (Bolle) Lock: A Review of Its Ethnomedicinal Uses, Phytochemistry, Pharmacological Activities, and Toxicological Profile

Senna petersiana (Bolle) Lock is a chemically diverse plant widely recognized for its ethnomedicinal applications across various traditional medical systems. It is native to and widely distributed in African countries, including Ethiopia, Cameroon, and South Africa. This review integrates the phytochemical composition, biological activities, and toxicological effects of S. petersiana. Phytochemical analyses reveal the presence of numerous classes of compounds, including alkaloids, flavonoids, phenolics, anthraquinones, chromones, and sterol glycosides, with variations in concentration across different plant parts. Quantitative studies highlight particularly high levels of phenolics and flavonoids in ethanol, methanol, and acetone extracts, correlating these with enhanced biological activities. Pharmacological investigations demonstrate a spectrum of activities, including antibacterial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, anthelmintic, and anticancer effects, supporting many of the plant’s traditional uses. Toxicological assessments suggest relative safety at moderate doses, though further evaluation is necessary for specific cell types and high-dose exposures. Despite the promising bioactivities, the mechanisms of action and in vivo efficacy of isolated compounds remain underexplored. Future research should focus on bioassay-guided isolation, detailed pharmacodynamic studies, and comprehensive toxicological profiling to validate and harness the therapeutic potential of S. petersiana. This review highlights the plant’s biochemical complexity and paves the way for its development as a valuable phytopharmaceutical agent.