Pueraria candollei var. mirifica: A precious source of pharmaceuticals and cosmeceuticals:(TJPS-2020-0283)

Abstract

Pueraria candollei var. mirifica (Airy Shaw & Suvat.) Niyomdham (PM), popularly known as “Kwao Krua”, is a medicinal plant that has been used for centuries in Thailand. Phytochemical studies indicated the presence of several bioactive molecules like miroestrol, deoxymiroestrol, puerarin, daidzein, daidzin, genistin, genistein, and kwakhurin. The pharmacological evaluation of PM indicated strong estrogenic, anti-osteoporosis effects, antiaging and antioxidant activities, as well as the ability to relieve other climacteric-related symptoms. There is conflicting evidence on the safety and toxicity of PM. The active ingredients in PM make it an ideal candidate for large-scale pharmaceutical exploitation as a cosmeceutical. Further studies are needed to evaluate its safety and toxicity in humans.