Phytochemicals, Pharmacological Properties and Biotechnological Aspects of Highly Medicinal Plant: Datura stramonium

Abstract

Plants are the backbone of the life on earth. They are essential resource for human well- being and among them Datura stramonium is one of highly important plants commonly known as Jimson weed. It is an annual herb found in temperate and sub-tropical areas. Its medicinal significance is mainly because of higher amounts of tropane alkaloids and traditionally used throughout the world. It possesses many phytoconstituents including alkaloids, flavonoids, amino acids, tannins, saponins, carbohydrates, terpenoids, steroidal glycosides and phenols. Various pharmacological activities i.e. anti-asthmatic, antimicrobial, antioxidant, anticancer and anti-inflammatory are exhibited by the plant. Secondary metabolites obtained from species of Datura genus produce tropane alkaloids which have influence on human nervous system and are used in medicines. Despite of its medicinal importance it is a potentially poisonous plant and known as plant hallucinogen. Its random use can cause restlessness and acute poisoning may lead to death. In global increasing energy demand scenario, Datura stramonium plant seeds oil is proved as an efficient source for biodiesel production. This paper will present an exclusive review with respect to the phytochemicals, ethno-medicinal, pharmacological and biotechnological aspects which will lay a solid foundation for further scientific research work to exploit the medicinal and industrial benefits of this plant.