Objective: This study investigates the anti-psoriatic potential of Fernandoa adenophylla through phytochemical profiling, in vivo assessment using an imiquimod (IMQ)-induced psoriasis model in mice, and in silico molecular docking studies.

Methods: Methanolic extracts of F. adenophylla leaves and fruits were subjected to preliminary phytochemical and physicochemical analyses. In vivo efficacy was evaluated in IMQ-induced psoriasis-like mice through PASI scoring and histopathological examination. In silico docking of key phytoconstituents lapachone and peshawaraquinone was performed against cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1, PDB ID: 4O1Z), followed by ADME and toxicity profiling.

Results: Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of glycosides, alkaloids, tannins, saponins, steroids, and proteins. In vivo, both leaf and fruit extracts (particularly at 200 mg/kg) significantly reduced erythema, scaling, and epidermal thickening, comparable to ketoconazole (2%). Histological analysis confirmed normalized skin architecture in treated groups. Docking studies demonstrated strong binding affinities of lapachone and peshawaraquinone to COX-1, supported by favorable ADME properties and low predicted toxicity.

Discussion: The findings suggest that F. adenophylla exhibits significant anti-psoriatic effects, likely mediated through inhibition of inflammatory pathways involving COX-1. The therapeutic response aligns with the plant’s bioactive constituents and traditional use in treating skin ailments. Conclusion: Fernandoa adenophylla demonstrates potent anti-psoriatic activity with promising safety and pharmacokinetic profiles. This validates its potential as a phytotherapeutic candidate for psoriasis management and warrants further clinical investigation. 

KEYWORDS: Fernandoa adenophylla, Psoriasis, Phytomedicine, Lapachone, Peshawaraquinone, Molecular Docking.