Mechanistic Insight into Anti-inflammatory Potential of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis Flower Extract as a Herbal Remedy: A Mini Review

Inflammation is a biological response of the immune system to noxious stimuli. Typically, NSAIDs are used to treat inflammatory diseases but have several adverse effects. Therefore, it is important to search for natural plant-based remedies to treat inflammatory conditions. Hibiscus rosa-sinensis is a flowering plant belonging to the genus Hibiscus which is widely used as a home remedy in Sri Lanka. The information was collected via major scientific databases including PubMed, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar, and Springer related to the H. rosa-sinensis species, polyphenols, chemical composition, and how the flower extract shows anti-inflammatory potential. Collected data was then analyzed and interpreted. The flower H. rosa-sinensis is a rich source of polyphenolic compounds including flavonoids and non-flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids, glycosides, saponins, terpenoids, vitamins, and other organic acids which are reported to exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential. The anti-inflammatory activity of H. rosa-sinensis flower is expressed via several mechanisms including the reduction of oxidative stress, inhibition of NF-κB and MAPK pathways, and the alterations of the arachidonic acid pathway. In addition, the inhibition of iNOS enzyme and caspase activity, and reduction of polymorphonuclear leukocyte infiltration can be given as other mechanisms. H. rosa sinensis flower is a rich source of bioactive compounds that exhibit potent antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities.