Abstract:
Medicinal plants are being widely used, either as single drug or in combination in health care delivery system. Indian Sarsaparilla, Hemidesmus indicus (Family: Asclepiadaceae) is a commonly known Indian Medicinal Plant, which is widely recognized in traditional systems of Medicine. It contains various phytoconstituents belonging to the category glycosides, flavonoids, tannins, sterols and volatile oils. It has been reported as useful in biliousness, blood diseases, dysentery, diarrhoea, respiratory disorders, skin diseases, syphilis, fever, leprosy, leucoderma, leucorrhoea, itching, bronchitis, asthma, eye diseases, epileptic fits in children, kidney and urinary disorders, loss of appetite, burning sensation, dyspepsia, nutritional disorders, ulcer and rheumatism. Several studies are being carried towards its activities like analgesic, antiinflammatory, antiulcer, hepatoprotective, antioxidant and helicobactericidal properties. Further, it also protects radiation-induced DNA damage. With all these potential benefits, this plant is not widely utilized. Hence this review was carried out to explore the hidden potential and its uses, towards the benefit of mankind.
Page(s):
1-12
DOI:
DOI not available
Published:
Journal: Journal of Biological Sciences, Volume: 8, Issue: 1, Year: 2008