Plumbago indica L.: A review of its medicinal uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology, and toxicology

Abstract

The biggest genus of flowering plants in the Plumbaginaceae family is called Plumbago indica L. This plant is regarded as toxic and is used mostly for external applications to cure skin conditions. The root is thought to be the most active component of the plant. It is regarded as an emmenagogue, abortifacient, alterative, carminative, stimulant, tomachic, and vesicant. The root is used internally to improve menstrual flow, cleanse the blood, stimulate digestion, and induce abortion. Leprosy, rheumatism, paralysis, tumors, headaches, toothaches, hemorrhoids, and swollen glands can all be treated with a poultice made from the roots. A vesicant is created using the root-bark. The leaves are applied as a poultice to cure headaches and rheumatism. With regard to taxonomy, morphology, medicinal applications, phytochemistry, pharmacology, and toxicity, Plumbago indica research has made significant strides in recent years. This study seeks to provide full information on such advances. Studies on its phytochemistry and pharmacology are the key areas of interest. Scientific databases such Web of Science, Pub Med, Google Scholar, Google, Sci. Finder, Science direct, Springer Link, and Wiley were used to find pertinent material. Many phytochemical and pharmacological investigations on Plumbago indica have been conducted in the last ten years. The naphthoquinone plumbagin is the plant's main active ingredient. Leucodelphinidin, plumbaginol (a flavonol), 6-hydroxyplumbagin, and steroids are further substances that have been identified from the aerial portions. Plumbagin has a range of pharmacological properties, including as anti-implantation, abortifacient, anti-microbial, anti-cancer, cardiotonic, and anti-fertility effects. Moreover, it is a potent irritant. To inspire further research, this review paper included empirically supported information on its therapeutic applications, photochemistry, pharmacology, and toxicological actions.