An Ayurvedic and Modern Aspects of Bhumyamalaki (Phyllanthus niruri): An Overview
Author : Khandekar Surekha, Pansare Tabassum, Aughade Agatrao and Bhokare Sneha
Abstract :
Phyllanthus niruri L. also known as Phyllanthus amarus Schum and Thonn (belonging to Euphorbiaceae family) is called as Bhumi amla or Bhui Amla in Hindi. And Bhumyamalaki in Sanskrit. It is a well-known medicinal plant in Ayurvedic classical medicine. It grows on its own in rainy season (kharif) and is available throughout the year in shady moist places. Ayurvedic classical texts have mentioned its use in cough, asthma, haemorrhagic disorder, anaemia, jaundice, skin disorders, urinary disorders etc. Phytochemical screening reported the existence of various phytocompounds such as alkaloid, flavonoid, terpenoids, cardiac glycoside, saponins, tannins, cyanogenic glycosides. It possesses antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antinociceptive, immunomodulatory, hepatoprotective, nephro-protective, cardioprotective, hypolipidemic, anti-platelet aggregation, vasorelaxant, anti-diabetic, anti-urolithic, anti-hyperuricemic, diuretic, anti-leptospiral, anti-plasmodial, anti-nematodal, antiviral, anti-bacterial, anti-ulcer, burn wound healing, anti-venom, anti-fertility and anticancer properties. These pharmacological studies have established a scientific basis for therapeutic uses of this plant. Further research is still needed on its active components and associated structure-activity relationship and multifactorial signaling mechanisms. In this article attempts were made to review medicinal value of this plant with special reference to an ayurvedic and modern scientific aspect.
Keywords :
Phyllanthus niruri, Phyllanthus amarus, Bhumyamalaki, pharmacological.
