A Comprehensive Review on Ethnobotany, Phytochemistry and Pharmacological Activities of the Genus Haplanthodes

Author

Ms. Neethu C., Mr. Sarath Lal P. S.

Abstract

 The genus Haplanthodes Kuntze (Acanthaceae) is a small endemic Indian genus comprising four recognized species, namely Haplanthodes neilgherryensis, H. plumosa, H. tentaculata and H. verticillata, together with one variety. This review compiles the available information on the taxonomy, morphology, vernacular names, habitat, ethnobotany, phytochemistry and pharmacological activities of the genus. Cladode form, capsule indumentum, calyx structure, seed surface and anatomical features are described as the main characters for species identification and authentication. Traditional uses are best documented for H. tentaculata, which is used for wound healing, stamina improvement, diabetes, kidney disorders and fever. Phytochemical studies have reported phenylpropanoids, sesquiterpenoids, phytosterols, flavonoids and fatty acid derivatives, with allyltetramethoxybenzene and stigmasterol reported from H. verticillata and a new flavanone glycoside isolated from H. neilgherryensis. The reported pharmacological activities include antioxidant and in vitro anticancer effects of H. verticillata, analgesic and antipyretic effects of H. tentaculata and increased glucose uptake by the flavanone glycoside. No phytochemical or pharmacological investigation has been reported for H. plumosa, and toxicity data are not available for the genus. Research gaps and future directions, including bioactivity-guided isolation, in vivo validation and safety evaluation, are discussed.

Keywords

Haplanthodes, Acanthaceae, Ethnobotany, Phytochemistry, Pharmacological Activities, Medicinal Plants

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References

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