Review on pharmacological properties of Andrographis paniculata (Burm.f.) Nees
Nisha and PB Rao
Andrographis paniculata commonly known as Kalmegh (King of Bitters) belongs to Family Acanthaceae is an important medicinal plant species used in Ayurvedic medicine (prominent in 26 Ayurvedic formulations). The herb possesses astringent properties used to cure bronchitis, cholera, diabetes, influenza, inflammation, itch, piles, gonorrhoea, liver disorder, jaundice and arresting dysentery, blood purifier. Various bioactive compounds such as andrographolide, andrographesterol, andrographopne homo-andrographolide are identified in phytochemical studies which reveal many therapeutic activities. This important plant shows antioxidant, hepatoprotective, antimicrobial, anticancer, antivenom, anti HIV, antimalarial, antipyretic, antifertility, antidiarrhoeal, antidiabetic, antihiperlipidemic activities. Present review have explored the various dimensions of this bitter plant and compiled its vast pharmacological applications to comprehend and synthesize the subject of its potential image of multipurpose medicinal agent.