Abstract

Sphaeranthus indicus Linn (Asteraceae) is commonly known as Munditika, Mundi, Shravana, Bhikshu, Tapodhana, Mahashravani, Shravanahva, and Shravanashirshaka. It is generally found in wet places of the lowlands and also grows as a weed in rice fields. Herein, the traditional uses, chemical components and pharmacological properties are compiled to provide a ready reference for scientists working on this plant species. The whole plant and various morphological parts are extensively used in Indian medicine to treat a variety of diseases. The plant has astringent, stomachic, reviving, pectoral, demulcent, and calming properties. Various secondary metabolites, such as eudesmanolides, sesquiterpenoids, sesquiterpene lactones, sesquiterpene acids, flavone glycosides, flavonoid C-glycosides, isoflavone glycoside, sterols, sterol glycoside, alkaloids, peptide alkaloids, amino acids, and sugars have been found in the plant. Numerous monoterpene hydrocarbons, oxygenated monoterpenes, oxygenated sesquiterpenes, and sesquiterpene hydrocarbons were found in the essential oils from the plant. The entire plant and various morphological parts have been reported to have ovicidal, anthelmintic, antifeedant, antimicrobial, antiviral, macrofilaricidal, larvicidal, analgesic, antipyretic, hepatoprotective, antitussive, wound healing, bronchodilatory, mast cell stabilising, anxiolytic, neuroleptic, immunomodulatory, anti-diabetic, antihyperlipidemic, antioxidant, central nervous system depressant, anti-arthritic, nephroprotective, and anticonvulsant activities. Acute toxicity of extracts from different plant parts revealed the safety of the drug.