Abrus precatorius: A comprehensive insight into the phytochemical, pharmacological, therapeutic activities and safety

Abstract

Abrus precatorius L., belonging to the family of Fabaceae is one of the potential herbal plants to be used as natural medicine. A. precatorius is capable of growing in tropical and subtropical areas of the world. The leaves of A. precatorius contain pinitol, triterpene glycosides, glycyrrhizin, and alkaloids. The leaves of A. precatorius can also treat leukoderma, skin diseases, itching, eye pain, and wounds. The seeds of A. precatorius contain flavonoids, steroids, alkaloids, anthocyanins, lectins, and fixed oils and can treat skin diseases, ulcers, and nervous system disorders. The roots of A. precatorius contain glycyrrhizin and alkaloid compounds and are able to treat rheumatism, alexiteric, sore throat, and vomiting. A. precatorius shows several therapeutic activities such as antimicrobial, anti-helminthics, antimalarial, antifungal, nephroprotective, immunomodulatory, neuromuscular, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, antifertility, antiserotonergic, antidiarrheal, antitumor, antispasmodic, and memory enhancing properties. Inappropriate dose of A. precatorius will cause toxic effects. Thus A. precatorius can be a good potential herbal plant to be used as a natural medicine. Keywords: Abrus precatorius, Fabaceae, Medicine, Pharmacology, Phytochemistry.