Acampe papillosa (Orchidaceae): An overview of botony, ethanopharmacology and therapeutic application

Acampe papillosa (Lindl.) Lindl., a robust epiphytic orchid of the family Orchidaceae, is acknowledged and has been utilized for generations for its ornamental, ecological, and therapeutic values. It has been employed by several societies for various therapeutic effects, e.g., rheumatism, fractures, gynecological, neuralgia, and infectious diseases, thereby establishing itself as an ethnopharmacologically important species. Contemporary research has confirmed A. papillosa to be a potential resource rich in phytochemicals (e.g., phenolics, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, alkaloids), while also revealing the presence of distinctive volatile compounds (e.g., methyldisulfide) that display pharmacological activities. Basic research (laboratory experiments) has confirmed multiple properties of A. papillosa, such as antioxidant, antibacterial/antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and cytotoxic, which align with its previously described traditional use. Nevertheless, A. papillosa has incurred threats from habitat loss, extraction, and climate change, which require immediate conservation planning. Restoration ecology, tissue culture, micropropagation, and phytochemical analysis will enhance conservation and drug discovery opportunities. This review discusses current knowledge on A. papillosa, including botanical traits, ethnomedicinal uses, phytochemistry, and pharmacology, while underscoring that additional studies executed with mechanistic approaches, extract standardization, and sustainable conservation approaches are needed to advance its therapeutic value.