Tannins, Terpenoids, And Alkaloids: A Review of Their Pharmacognostic Importance in Anti-Inflammatory Therapy

The significant followings of secondary metabolites plant-derived products are tannins, terpenoids, and alkaloids, which have significant pharmacognostic value in the treatment of anti-inflammation. Preclinical studies on animal models demonstrate that tannins, by means of their inhibitory effect on COX and LOX enzymes and their ability to scavenge reactive oxygen species, reduce edema, oxidative stress, and swelling of joints, whereas terpenoids (oleanolic and ursolic acid), by regulating the immune response and alleviating pro-inflammatory cytokine responses and anti-inflammatory effects on tissues, can be described as antioxidants. Alkaloids (such as berberine and colchicine) also work through distinct mechanisms of action, namely via inhibition of NF-KB, suppression of iNOS, and modulation of immune cell infiltration to yield therapeutic effects to specific gastrointestinal and joint inflammation. Taken together; these compounds can shed light on a variety of, but complementary mechanisms, which can provide safe and sustainable alternatives to traditional anti-inflammatory medicines. Although their potential remains encouraging, shortcomings including inefficient bioavailability, unstandardized extraction, and limited chronic model studies as well as their poorly studied translational potential, continue to represent a major obstacle. By filling these gaps with standardized approaches, pharmacokinetic/toxicological profiling, and designing synergistic formulations, the enhancement of their therapeutic value may be possible and allow their introduction in veterinary and biomedical practice.