Oldenlandia corymbosa L. : A Phytopharmacological review

Abstract

Oldenlandia corymbosa (L.) (Rubiaceae) is a weedy annual herb, found throughout India. It is commonly known as Parppatakapullu in traditional medicine of Kerala. The plant is known to clear heat and toxins, activate blood circulation, promote diuresis and relieve stranguria. It is also active against appendicitis, hepatitis, pneumonia, cholecystesis, urinary infection, cellulites and snake bite. Chinese folk medicine describes the plant to treat skin sores, ulcers, sore throat, bronchitis, gynecologic infections and pelvic inflammatory diseases. The plant contains flavonols, phenolic acids, anthocyanidins, irridoids and alkaloids. A scrutiny of literature revealed some notable pharmacological activities of the plant such as hepatoprotective, cytotoxic anti-oxidant, oxytocic and anti malerial activity. The present review is an attempt to highlight the various ethnobotanical and traditional uses as well as phytochemical and pharmacological reports on Oldenlandia corymbosa .