Argyreia speciosa Linn. f. : Phytochemistry, pharmacognosy and pharmacological studies

Many herbal remedies have been employed in various medical systems for the treatment and management of different diseases. The plant, Argyreia speciosa Linn.f. (Syn: Argyreia nervosa) belongs to family convolvulaceae has been used in different system of traditional medication for the treatment of diseases and ailments of human beings. It is reported to contain various alkaloids, glycosides, falconoid glycoside and steroids. It has been reported as antimicrobial, antidiarrhoeal, hepatoprotective, nootropic, anticonvulsant, central nervous system, hypoglycemic, antioxidant, antibacterial, antiviral, nematicidal, aphordiasic, immunomodulatory, analgesic and anti-inflammatory activity. Many isolated constituents from A. speciosa lack the reports of pharmacological activities, which support its further pharmacological studies.   Key words: Argyreia speciosa, pharmacognosy, pharmacology, traditional uses.