Ethnomedicinal Uses, Phytochemistry, Pharmacological Activity, Therapeutic Potentials, and Functional Foods of Coccinia grandis (L.) Voigt: An Updated Review

Coccinia grandis (L.) Voigt (ivy gourd) is popularly consumed in South Asia for food and therapeutic purposes. C. grandis acts as a remedy for various ailments, such as hypertension, diabetes, cancer, ulcers, diarrhea, jaundice, inflammation, fever, bronchitis, burns, skin eruptions, insect bites, allergies, eye infections, and urinary disorders. Researchers have identified phytoconstituents in diverse chemical classes from this species, including alkaloids, flavonoids, coumarins, esters, ethers, fatty acids, fatty alcohols, terpenoids, and phenolic compounds. Comprehensive research conducted in vitro and in vivo has confirmed the properties of the plant as antidiabetic, anticancer, antiparasitic, antimicrobial, hepatoprotective, analgesic, antipyretic, anti-Alzheimer's, anticataract, antileishmanial, anti-anaphylactic, anti-histaminic, and wound-healing agent, as well as being advantageous for cardiovascular health. Most pharmacological findings are derived from studies on the extracts and the subsequent phytoconstituents from this plant species. Nevertheless, the specific phytoconstituents underlying these biological effects and the mechanisms of action involved are yet to be fully identified. Toxicological evaluations indicate that C. grandis is generally safe, although high doses can cause dose-dependent hepatotoxicity. Moreover, the clinical trials focusing on the antidiabetic effects of C. grandis demonstrate promising effects in managing glucose dysregulation. This review aims to provide a comprehensive update on C. grandis, expanding on previous studies by incorporating a broader ethnomedicinal scope, a more extensive phytochemical profile with detailed chemical structures, and additional clinical trial data. Unlike prior publications, this review emphasizes C. grandis as a functional food, highlighting its potential in chronic disease management. By integrating these aspects, this study offers a more in-depth analysis of the therapeutic potential and future applications of this plant. The functional food aspect of C. grandis, rich in bioactive compounds, supports its role in preventing and managing chronic diseases as a regular vegetable.