Overview
- Nagaland University and Assam Down Town University conducted the first comprehensive scientific study of Goniothalamus simonsii, a medicinal plant endemic to Meghalaya.
- Laboratory assays found extracts from different plant parts showed strong antiproliferative activity against colon cancer cells.
- Computational modelling indicated natural compounds from the species interact with cancer‑related proteins, suggesting possible nature‑based drug leads.
- The peer‑reviewed paper in Chemistry and Biodiversity (October 2025) reports antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti‑inflammatory and antidiabetic activities, offering scientific support for traditional use.
- Classified as Endangered by the IUCN, the plant’s declining wild populations prompted researchers to call for urgent, targeted conservation efforts.