Review on nutritional properties, health benefits, food industry applications, post-harvest management, and potential risks of Hagenia abyssinica (African Redwood)

Abstract

Hagenia abyssinica (African Redwood) is a multipurpose medicinal plant traditionally utilized across Africa for treating parasitic infections, gastrointestinal disorders, and inflammatory conditions. This review synthesizes current knowledge on its bioactive compounds, including phloroglucinol derivatives (koussoin), flavonoids, tannins, phenolic acids, and essential oils (cis-davanone and cryptone), which contribute to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antiparasitic activities. Notably, H. abyssinica has demonstrated efficacy against pathogens such as Taenia saginata, Escherichia coli , and Candida albicans , while its green-synthesized silver and zinc oxide nanoparticles (AgNPs and ZnO) show promise in biomedicine and environmental remediation. The plant also holds potential as a natural preservative and functional food ingredient, aligning with the increasing global demand for plant-based alternatives in the food and pharmaceutical industries. Despite its therapeutic and industrial significance, research gaps remain in standardizing extraction methods, optimizing bioavailability, and assessing its long-term safety. Additionally, its role in post-harvest management and soil fertility enhancement is underexplored. Nationally, H. abyssinica is culturally and economically significant in Ethiopia, where it has been traditionally used for medicinal and food preservation purposes. Internationally, its bioactive potential supports the development of sustainable solutions in health and agriculture. Future research should focus on clinical validation, safety assessments, and the development of novel applications to ensure its sustainable utilization.