Vol. 7, Issue 2, Part F (2025)

Plant derived medicinal herbs have a significant place both in traditional and modern system of healthcare. Among the various plant species utilized by tribal people as folk medicine, (Gule dhawa) Woodfordia fruticosa kurz has been prescribed for the treatment of multiple ailments across various systems of treatment practices. Among all the other parts of this medicinal plant its flowers are majorly considered to possess great therapeutic activity. Hence, the plant is considered to be of considerable economic value. Plenty of phytochemical compounds has been identified from the flower of (Gule dhawa) Woodfordia fruticosa Kurz. The various phytochemicals isolated from this plant are tannins, flavonoids, anthra-quinone, glycosides and polyphenols. These bioactive compounds possess several pharmacological properties, such as antimicrobial activity, hepato-protective, cardio-protective, antioxidant, immune-modulatory, antifertility and anti-tumour. These pharmacological activities of Woodfordia fruticosa plant are mentioned in the classical texts of Unani system of medicine and other traditional systems of medicine as well. The purpose of this concise review is to present a comprehensive account of Woodfordia fruticosa (Gule Dhawa), highlighting its phytochemical profile, traditional folk applications, contemporary therapeutic uses, and documented biological activities. In addition, insights from classical Unani literature are integrated, where the plant holds an esteemed position as a potent medicinal agent prescribed for various gynecological, gastrointestinal, and systemic ailments.