Ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry and biological activities of selected African species of the genus Ficus

The genus Ficus is one of the largest genera of the mulberry family (Moraceae) consisting of about 800 species of woody trees, shrubs, vines and climbers collectively known as ‘figs’ occurring in most tropical and subtropical forests worldwide. Fig plants are known for their ethnopharmacological, therapeutic and commercial importance and have been used in traditional medicines as a cure against malaria, diabetes, cancer, diarrhea, pyretic, ulcer, as well as gastrointestinal and urinary tract infections. Therefore, the present review aims to offer an updated compendium of documents sourced from recent publications regarding ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry and biological activities of nine selected African Ficus species with the aim to open new prospects and strategies for further pharmacological research as a remedy for various ailments and for drug development.