Phyto-Pharmacology Profile Of Holarrhena Antidysenterica: A Review

Abstract

Medicinal plants have been recognized for centuries and are highly regarded worldwide as a valuable source of therapeutic agents for disease prevention and treatment. Holarrhena antidysenterica, commonly known as kauri, kurchi, or kutaj, has been employed since ancient times. Holarrhena antidysenterica (also known as H. pubescens), a member of the Apocynaceae family, is renowned in Ayurveda for its medicinal properties found in its stem bark, leaves, and seeds. Over the years, researchers have isolated various phytochemical compounds from this plant, demonstrating their traditional pharmacological effects, including analgesic, antibacterial, anti-diarrheal, anti-diabetic, antioxidant, anti-urolithic, and anti-inflammatory activities. Furthermore, recent studies have unveiled novel activities such as angiotensin-converting-enzyme inhibition, acetylcholinesterase inhibition, anti-amnesic effects, and neuroprotective properties. This review aims to shed light on the therapeutic potential of Holarrhena antidysenterica for various diseases.