A mini-review of pharmacological and economical values of Funtumia africana

Abstract

Funtumia africana belongs to the family Apocynaceae. It is a fast growing tree found in green forests and forest reserves in West Africa. The plant has a long history of use in traditional medicine to treat and manage various diseases such as diabetes, cancer, burns, amoebic dysentery, urinary incontinence, bacterial infections and malaria. It is used economically for the production of furniture, match sticks and firewood. This review paper presents the botanical description, pharmacological uses and economic importance of F. africana.