A Comprehensive Review on Calotropis Procera on Its Analgesic Activity

Abstract

Calotropis procera, a widely distributed medicinal plant, has long been used in traditional medicine for pain and inflammation. Its diverse phytoconstituents—including cardenolides, flavonoids, alkaloids, triterpenoids, and proteolytic enzymes such as calotropin and uscharin—contribute significantly to its analgesic activity. Preclinical studies confirm both central and peripheral analgesic effects through modulation of nociceptive pathways, inhibition of inflammatory mediators, and interactions with opioid receptors. Extracts from the latex, leaves, and roots demonstrate promising results in experimental pain models. Despite these findings, challenges remain concerning toxicity and dosage standardization, which limit clinical translation. Overall, Calotropis procera represents a promising natural source for novel analgesic drug development. Further pharmacological and well-designed clinical studies are warranted to establish its efficacy, safety, and mechanisms in humans. Calotropis procera exhibits significant analgesic activity, primarily attributed to its bioactive compounds such as lupeol, n-hexadecanoic acid, and cyclopentane. Studies have demonstrated that ethanolic extracts of Calotropis procera flowers possess pain-ameliorative effects in various animal models, including the tail-flick test, hot plate method, and acetic acid-induced writhing test.