DOI: https://doi.org/10.36347/sjams.2026.v14i09.006

Pages: 1156-1169

Background: Cuscuta reflexa Roxb. (Tukhme Kasoos/Aftimoon) is a holoparasitic medicinal plant traditionally used in the Unani system for several disorders, including hepatobiliary conditions. Contemporary investigations have increasingly explored its phytochemistry, anticancer activity, hepatoprotective effects, and associated molecular mechanisms. Objective: This review aimed to critically evaluate the phytochemical basis, anticancer and hepatoprotective potential, molecular mechanisms, safety considerations, and translational relevance of C. reflexa. Methods: Evidence was synthesized from studies retrieved through major biomedical and multidisciplinary databases, including PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar. Experimental evidence was categorized according to phytochemical, in-vitro, in-vivo, in-silico, and traditional evidence levels. Particular attention was given to plant material, extraction method, experimental model, molecular endpoints, and translational limitations. Results: C. reflexa contains diverse phytoconstituents, including phenolic compounds, flavonoids, coumarin-related constituents, sterols, glycosides, and phenylpropanoid derivatives. Preclinical studies demonstrated concentration-dependent antiproliferative activity and tumor-growth inhibition in experimental cancer models. Conclusion: C. reflexa is a promising preclinical natural-product candidate with notable anticancer and hepatoprotective potential.