Ficus spp. (Figs) and their anticancer potential: A systematic review of laboratory studies and traditional uses in the Philippines

Introduction: Ficus species (figs) have been traditionally utilized for managing various diseases, including cancer, a leading cause of global morbidity and mortality. Despite their widespread use, it remains an underexplored genus in modern pharmacognosy. This review documents species used as anticancer remedies in the Philippines and synthesizes global laboratory evidence supporting their anticancer properties. This approach bridges traditional knowledge with modern research, offering new insights into the therapeutic potential of the genus. Methods: A systematic review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines. Relevant studies were retrieved from electronic databases (ScienceDirect, PubMed) and expanded search (Google Scholar). Database filters and keywords, such as "anticancer" and "Ficus", were optimized with Boolean operators and wildcards to refine search results. Study quality was evaluated using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT). Results: A total of ۷۶ articles met the inclusion criteria, with ۵۸ classified as high quality and ۱۸ as moderate-high quality. Five key species, namely Ficus septica, Ficus elastica, Ficus congesta, Ficus concinna, and Ficus botryocarpa, were recorded for local traditional use, predominantly prepared as leaf decoctions. Laboratory evidence identified bioactive compounds such as terpenoids, flavonoids, alkaloids, phenolics, and species-specific compounds, exhibiting cytotoxic effects against multiple cancer types through mechanisms such as cell cycle arrest, apoptosis, antioxidant modulation, and metastasis inhibition. Conclusion: This review highlights the potential of Ficus spp. as a source of anticancer agents, aligning traditional uses with laboratory evidence. Findings provide a foundation for further exploration of Ficus-based therapies in clinical applications.