Therapeutic Potential of Ugonins: Bioactive Flavonoids from Helminthostachys zeylanica with Multifaceted Biological Activities

Abstract

Ugonins are distinctive chemotaxonomic bioactive metabolites identified in Helminthostachys zeylanica. This uncommon fern species generates a diverse array of flavonoids, including ugonins, which facilitate various biological processes such as anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, melanogenesis-inhibiting, antioxidant, anti-osteoporotic, and immunomodulatory functions. Our objective in this comprehensive literature review is to deliver a clear and visually engaging analysis of the therapeutic potential inherent in each of the compounds found in H. zeylanica. This review covers the isolation of ugonins A – Y and other metabolites from this plant. These compounds demonstrate a diverse range of biological properties, which are thoroughly discussed in this review. The binding scores of all ugonins A – Y against PTP1B were also presented, indicating their potential activities for future consideration. Ultimately, a thorough understanding of the diverse therapeutic properties inherent in this unique fern can be achieved through a meticulous examination of the existing literature.

Keywords

Helminthostachys zeylanica - ophioglossaceae ugonins - anti-inflammatory - antioxidant - antidiabetic

Publication History

Received: 19 March 2025

Accepted after revision: 06 October 2025

Accepted Manuscript online:
06 October 2025

Article published online:
04 November 2025

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