Andrographis paniculata: A Review of its Traditional Uses, Phytochemistry and Pharmacology

Objective: Plants have been effectively used in traditional medicines for centuries. The present review aims at compiling vast pharmacological applications to comprehend and synthesize the potential image of Andrographis paniculata as a multipurpose medicinal agent. Key findings: The aerial part of the plant contains a large number of chemical constituents, mainly lactones, diterpenoids, diterpene glycosides, flavonoids and flavonoid glycosides. It has multiple pharmacological properties such as antibacterial, hepatoprotective activity, anti-cancer, antitumor, hypoglycemic, immunomodulatory and hypotensive activities. Conclusions: The plant is widely cultivated and its importance as a medicinal plant is growing up with stronger reports in support of its multifarious therapeutic uses. Taking great concern of the useful benefits of the plant, it can be advocated as a safe, highly important medicinal plant for mankind.