Author(s):

Pranabesh Ghosh, Prakriti Das, Chandrima Das, Supratim Mahapatra and Sirshendu Chatterjee

Abstract: Ethnomedicinal practices used in better health treatment system from ancient time. Phytomedicines are now an essential area of better treatment and high prospects in many nations. It is less expensive as well as has better cultural and societal recognition, has better feasibility with the human physiological system and has decidedly fewer side effects. Heliotropium indicum Linn. (Family- Boraginaceae) an annual herbaceous medicinal weed and it is commonly known as Indian heliotrope. It is not only a common weed but also it is an important medicinal herb, too. These medicinal herbs are found in tropical and temperate parts of the world along with India, Bangladesh, and some other African countries. Extensive literature studies suggested that the various parts of the plant are reported to possess anti-microbial, anti-tumor, anti-tuberculosis, antiplasmodial, anti-cataract, anti-fertility, wound healing, anti-inflammatory, antinociceptive, analgesic and histo-gastro protective properties. Many pyrrolizidine categories of alkaloids have been separated from this particular medicinal plant. Maximum alkaloids which are isolated from Heliotropium indicum are toxic effects and for that reason use of Heliotropium indicum in internal therapy is not recommended. External methods to cure wound healing and skin infections are less risky, still much more research study is needed. The present review study deals with natural habitat, pharma phytochemical screening, botanical, taxonomical and other critical biological aspects of Heliotropium indicum. The main phytochemicals found in this plant are tannins and alkaloids. The present review may be helpful for identification and preparation of a clear monograph of Heliotropium indicum.

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