Traditional and Ethno Pharmacological Aspects of Apang (Achyranthes aspera L.)

Abstract

Abstract
Herbs are vital source of drugs from the ancient time holding the scenario of the Ayurvedic system of medicine. Since time immemorial, Achyranthes aspera Linn. along with other herbs has been used in different systems of medicine. Though almost all of its parts are used in traditional systems of medicines, seeds, roots and shoots are the most important parts which are used extensively. This review reveals that the plant possesses antimicrobial, antifertility, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antihypertensive, antianasacra, antispasmodic, antipyretic, antinoiceptive, anti-allergic, immunostimulant, diuretic, hypolipidemic, larvicidal, cardiac stimulant, analgesic, prothyrodic and various other important medicinal properties. The current review deals with the enormous amount of scientific research and reports available in different aspects of ethnopharmacognostic, ethnopharmacologic, traditional value and folk remedies of this herb. This review also includes reports on taxonomy, morphology and ecology of the plant, which may help the researchers to set their minds for approaching the utility, efficacy and potency of this herb.
Keywords: Achyranthes aspera, pharmacology, medicinal properties, traditional and folk remedies