Abstract

Adhatoda vasica Nees (Acanthaceace) is a well known medicinal plant from which certain alkaloids, phenolics, flavonoids, sterols and their glycoside derivatives have been isolated. Its diverse medicinal activities include cardiovascular protection, abortifacient, antitubercular, antimutagenic, antiulcer, antiasthmatic activities, hepatoprotective, antibacterial and antitussive activities. It is commonly used in indigenous and traditional folk medicine system in South-East-Asia. An up-to-date data on phytochemical compositions and pharmacological properties of different parts of Adhatoda vasica are reviewed and commented in this article.

Keywords: Adhatoda vasica, alkaloids, vasicine, bronchidal, radioprotective activity, phenolics, flavonoids, sterols, glycoside derivatives, abortifacient, antitubercular