Abstract

Rhodomyrtus tomentosa is a medicinal plant with vast phytochemical diversity. Its major bioactive constituents include acylphloroglucinols, terpenoids, polyphenol, and flavonoids. Phytochemicals form the plant possess a wide range of biological activities and many are prospect as possible alternative compounds for the management of various health disorders. The review presents the antimicrobial mechanism of action of extracts from the plant and its derivative compounds as reported by published research articles. The search showed that 126 documents have been published on the chemical composition and bioactivities of the plant, in addition, 35 documents were published on rhodomyrtone, the major bioactive acylphloroglucinol from the plant. Retrieved data suggested that the plant is rich in bioactive phytochemicals including rhodomyrtone and its derivatives, Myricitrin, Piceatannol, quercetin, dihydromyricetin, kaempferol, and vitexin. Furthermore, antimicrobial assays indicated that the plant is a source of effective antimicrobial compounds with various mechanisms of action. This paper reviews current knowledge the chemical composition, pharmacology, and toxicology of the plant and its principal compound. The review is intended to inform scientists with interested in drug development on the excellent qualities of the plant and to encourage further research aimed at shedding light on its medical relevance, biocompatibility, pharmacology, and pharmacokinetics.