Vajradanti (Barleria prionitis): A review of its pharmacognosy, phytochemistry and pharmacological properties

Abstract

Barleria prionitis Linn., commonly known as Vajradanti, is a medicinal shrub from the family Acanthaceae that has been extensively used in Ayurvedic medicine for the treatment of oral diseases, fever, inflammation, and several systemic ailments. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the pharmacognostic, phytochemical, and pharmacological attributes of B. prionitis. Traditionally utilized in the form of decoctions, gargles, and pastes, various parts of the plant particularly roots and leaves—have shown therapeutic utility. Phytochemical investigations reveal the presence of diverse secondary metabolites such as alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, glycosides, tannins, terpenoids, and phenolic compounds. Recent pharmacological studies highlight its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antidiabetic, hepatoprotective, and neuroprotective activities. It exhibits significant efficacy in in-vitro and in-vivo models with minimal toxicity. The presence of compounds like quercetin, luteolin, barlerin, and β-sitosterol underlines its medicinal potential. While the plant demonstrates broad-spectrum activity, gaps remain in toxicity profiling and clinical validations. This review aims to consolidate scattered findings to encourage future pharmacological exploration and potential drug development.