Pharmacological Aspects of a Bioactive Compound Arbutin: A Comprehensive Review

Abstract

Over the past few decades, researchers emphasized herbal medicines as an alternative therapeutic approach due to the high success rate of developing a new drug from a natural template. This review aims to discuss the recent pharmacological activities of Arbutin, natural hydroquinone found abundantly in nature. Google Scholar, Pubmed, ScienceDirect, and Scopus databases were explored to retrieve the last ten-year articles related to pharmacological activities of Arbutin. This drug is extensively used to prevent hyperpigmentation disorders like Melasma, Ephelide, Freckles, and Solar Lentigines. It is hydrolyzed in the gut into hydroquinone and glucose. Although its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties are responsible for various pharmacological effects, Arbutinisis also used traditionally for hypoglycemic, wound healing, and renal activities.Arbutin modulates several pathways such as insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor (IGF-1R), 5′ adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase(AMPK), and major excitatory pathways and mechanisms (e.g., Glucose-transporter-4 expression). It can attenuate matrix metalloproteinases, α-amylase,α-glucosidase, tyrosinase, and transcription factors. Taken together, these findings make Arbutin a fascinating natural molecule, which might be explored for health care, therapeutic properties, and drug template. Preclinical data indicated the therapeutic significance of Arbutin. However, clinical efficacy and safety need rigorous investigations.