Lakshmi Girish

Selaginella, one of the largest genera of lycopods, is mentioned as Sanjeevani booti’ meaning “One that Infuses Life”. The present review emphasises the description, phytochemical constituents, medicinal uses, and pharmacological properties of various species of Selaginella. The plant is used in the treatment of many diseases and possesses various pharmacological properties like antimicrobial, antioxidant, cytotoxic, anti-diabetic, hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory, anti-spasmodic, anti-mutagenic, anti-Alzheimers, anti-nociceptive, cytotoxic and anticancer activities. The significant phytochemicals include alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, saponins and steroids, amino acids, glycosides, phenols, triterpenes, and catechin. Selaginella also possess natural pigments such as selaginellin A and selaginellin B.

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