Plumbagin is widely studied for its diverse biological activities and potential therapeutic applications. It exhibits strong anti-cancer properties by inducing apoptosis and inhibiting cell proliferation in various cancer cell lines, including breast, prostate, pancreatic, liver, and colon cancers. Its ability to modulate key signaling pathways such as NF-κB and PI3K/AKT makes it a promising candidate for anticancer drug development.

It also shows significant anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, useful in managing chronic inflammatory diseases, oxidative stress-related conditions, and preventing chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease. Plumbagin has antimicrobial activity against a range of pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi, supporting its traditional use in treating infections and as a lead for developing drugs against resistant strains.

In addition, it has been explored for its neuroprotective potential, with studies suggesting benefits in neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer’s disease due to its ability to reduce neuroinflammation and prevent neuronal damage.

Agricultural applications include its use as a natural pesticide, where it acts as a growth inhibitor for certain pests, exhibits allelopathic effects influencing the growth of surrounding plants, and serves as an insect repellent.

Overall, plumbagin’s broad bioactivity profile makes it valuable in pharmaceutical, medicinal, and agricultural research.