Abstract

PHYTOPHARMACOLOGICAL PROPERTIES OF BOERHAVIA DIFFUSA: A REVIEW

Nida Khan*, Mr. Sarfraj Ahmad

ABSTRACT

Boerhavia diffusa is an important medicinal herb widely used in traditional systems of medicine, particularly Ayurveda, for the treatment of various human ailments. The plant possesses diverse pharmacological activities including antibacterial, antifungal, antiparasitic, antidiabetic, hepatoprotective, cardioprotective, renoprotective, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and diuretic effects. These therapeutic properties are mainly attributed to the presence of bioactive phytoconstituents such as flavonoids, alkaloids, phenolic compounds, saponins, tannins, terpenoids, glycosides, and steroids distributed in different parts of the plant. Traditionally, B. diffusa is extensively used for the management of renal and urinary disorders, liver diseases, respiratory problems, inflammation, gastrointestinal disorders, fever, obesity, jaundice, and edema. Scientific investigations have supported many of these traditional claims, highlighting its significant medicinal potential. However, despite extensive pharmacological studies, the precise molecular mechanisms underlying its therapeutic actions remain insufficiently explored. Therefore, further phytochemical, toxicological, molecular, and clinical studies are required to validate its efficacy and safety for wider application in modern medicine.

Keywords: Boerhavia diffusa, Punarnava, Phytochemicals, Pharmacological activities, Medicinal plant, Antioxidant activity, Antidiabetic activity.