Womens College of Pharmacy, Peth Vadgaon.
Boerhaavia diffusa Linn. also appertained to as Punarnava, is a important medicinal condiment with long roots in Siddha, Unani, and Ayurvedic traditions. This herbaceous factory, which is set up throughout tropical and tropical regions of the world and belongs to the Nyctaginaceae family, is remarkably adaptable and different in terms of its pharmacological makeup. This review summarizes a wealth of information regarding the phytochemical profile and pharmacological eventuality of B. diffusa, emphasizing important bioactive factors like lignans, glycosides, rotenoids, alkaloids( like punarnavine), flavonoids( like boeravinones, kaempferol), and steroids( like ?- sitosterol). Together, these substances support a broad range of pharmacological goods, similar as immunomodulatory, hepatoprotective, nephroprotective, antidiabetic,anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, spasmolytic, adaptogenic, and anticancer properties. Many of its ethnomedical uses, from the treatment of metabolic runs and cancer to liver and renal problems, are supported by contemporary exploration that clarifies pathways including oxidative. Ultramodern exploration backs up numerous of its ethnomedical uses, which range from the treatment of liver and order problems to metabolic runs and cancer, by clarifying pathways involving oxidative stress reduction, cytokine modulation, enzyme inhibition, and apoptosis induction. This study focuses on pharmacognostic aspects, current advancements in remedial assessments, and gaps that bear clinical evidence. It's also stressed for its adding significance in medicine development and integrative healthcare. The accumulated data portrays Boerhaavia diffusa as a phytopharmacological asset of tremendous value in both traditional and contemporary drug, warranting ongoing study for its clinical and artificial uses.
Boerhaavia diffusa, commonly known as Punarnava, holds a prominent position as a significant medicinal plant in traditional medicine? (1). This herb has been a staple in traditional healing systems for centuries, particularly in Ayurveda and Unani medicine, where it is employed to address a wide array of ailments (2,3). The name "Punarnava" itself, which translates to "rejuvenate" or "renew" in Sanskrit, reflects the plant's traditional use as a rejuvenator and revitalizer. Its historical and cultural significance is deeply rooted in the ancient medical practices of India and other regions, where it has been valued for its ability to encourage general health and wellness. The plant is not merely seen as a remedy for specific diseases but as a holistic tonic that supports the body's natural healing processes. The traditional uses of Boerhaavia diffusa span a diverse range of health conditions, reflecting its versatile therapeutic properties. It has been employed to treat liver disorders, kidney ailments, cardiac problems, and inflammatory conditions. Moreover, it is often used as a diuretic, helping to eliminate excess fluids from the body and support kidney function. In Ayurvedic medicine, Boerhaavia Diffusa belongs to the category of "Rasayana" herbs, which possess anti-aging, disease-prevention, and life-strengthening qualities (4). This classification underscores its importance as a rejuvenating agent to enhance vitality and resilience. The adaptogenic characteristics of the plant also make it useful for reducing stress and encouraging mental well-being. Belonging to the Nyctaginaceae family, a classification that situates it within a group of flowering plants recognized for their unique fruit structures and diverse medicinal attributes,?Boerhaavia diffusa thrives in the warm embrace of tropical and subtropical regions around the globe?(5,6,7). Its resilience and adaptability enable it to flourish in a wide spectrum of environmental conditions, from the humid tropics to the arid subtropics, contributing to its widespread distribution and making it an accessible resource for communities across diverse geographical landscapes. This adaptability not only ensures its availability but also underscores its potential as a sustainable source of medicinal compounds. The narrative of?Boerhaavia diffusa is deeply intertwined with the history of traditional medicine, particularly within the Ayurvedic and Unani systems, both of which represent ancient and comprehensive approaches to healthcare that have been practiced for millennia?(1,7,8). In these venerable systems, BD is not merely a plant; it is a therapeutic entity, revered for its capacity to help treat a broad range of illnesses, from minor infections to long-term diseases, solidifying its status as a cornerstone in pharmacopeia. Its enduring presence in these traditional medical practices is a testament to its perceived efficacy and safety, paving the way for modern scientific investigations to validate its therapeutic potential and unravel the mysteries of its pharmacological actions.
<a href="https://www.ijpsjournal.com/uploads/createUrl/createUrl-20250512185540-0.png" target="_blank">
<img alt="1.png" height="150" src="https://www.ijpsjournal.com/uploads/createUrl/createUrl-20250512185540-0.png" width="150">
</a>
Figure No.1: Representation Photograph of Boerhaavia Diffusa Leaves, Roots, Flower, Fruits and Stem
Drug Review:
Geographical Distribution
Warm, humid, subtropical conditions are home to species of the genus Boerhaavia. Around 40 species can be found in the world's temperate zones. Boerhaavia species may be found in North and South America, Africa, and nations such as Benin, Egypt, Rwanda, Senegal, Somalia, South Africa, Sudan, Zambia, Ethiopia, Ghana, and Nigeria, among others. Afghanistan, Cambodia, Kuwait, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, the Philippines, Saudi Arabia, India, and other Asian nations, including China and Malaysia. (11)
Macroscopic Characters
Stems: Greenish purple, stiff, slender, cylindrical, swollen or thick at the nodes, minutely pubescent, or almost glabrous are the characteristics of Boerhaavia diffusa stems. They are divaricately prostrate, with common stalks bearing branches that are around one meter long. The stems are bright reddish brown above and pale greenish below. (8,10)
Root: Well-developed, long, cylindrical, yellowish-brown to brown, and 0.2 to 1.5 cm in diameter. Its surface is smooth to the touch yet rough owing to microscopic longitudinal striations and root scars. It has no distinct fragrance, is short, and is fragmented. It tastes a bit sweet, peppery, and bitter. (8,10)
Leaves: The leaves of Boerhaavia diffusa are ovate-oblong or suborbicular, arranged in uneven pairs, and have a subcordate or rounded base and a rounded or slightly pointed tip. The bigger leaves measure 25–37 mm in length, while the smaller ones measure 12–18 mm. The color is glabrous above and green and pale underneath. It has a thin shape, a thick texture, petioles that are almost as long as the blade, an entire or sub-undulate edge, and occasionally a pinkish dorsal side. (8,10)
Flowers: Very little, pink, almost sessile or short-stalked, 10–25 cm, in tiny umbels, on long, thin stalks, with 4–10 corymbs and axillary and in bracteoles, terminal panicles, tiny, acute, perianth tube constricted above the ovary, red, funnel-shaped, 3 mm long, tube 5-lobed, stamen 2–3, bottom part greenish, ovoid, ribbed. (8,10)
Fruit: One-seeded nut, round, blunt, widely rounded, five-ribbed, viscid glandular clavate, 6 mm long. (8,10)
Microscopic Characters
Stem: A cross-section of the stem reveals an epidermal layer with multicellular, uniseriate glandular trichomes that have an ellipsoidal head and 9–12 stalked cells. The cortex has one or two layers of parenchyma, the endodermis is indistinct, and the pericycle has one or two layers, thick walls, and often contains isolated fibers. The stele has numerous small vascular bundles connected in a ring numerous large vascular bundles dispersed throughout the ground tissue, and there is an intrafascicular cambium. (8,10)
Root: A transverse section of a mature root reveals a cork made up of thin-walled, tangentially elongated cells with brown walls in the outer few layers and a cork cambium of one to two layers of thin-walled cells; the secondary cortex is made up of two to three layers of parenchymatous cells, and the cortex is made up of five to twelve layers of thin-walled, oval-to-polygonal cells; the number of concentric bands of xylem tissue alternates with a wide zone of parenchymatous tissue beneath the cortical regions; the number of bands varies depending on the thickness of the root and is made up of vessels, tracheids, and fibers. The vessels are primarily found in groups of two to eight in radial rows, and the tracheids are small, thick-walled, elongated, spindle-shaped, with pointed ends, and the phloem is hemispherical (8,10)
Leaves: A transverse section of the leaf reveals many anomocytic stomata on the sides, orange-red resinous matter in the mesophyll, palisade one-layer, spongy parenchyma two to four layers with tiny air spaces, idioblasts containing raphides, and occasionally cluster crystals of calcium oxalate. There are also a few short hairs, three to four cells, present on the margin and veins. Stomatal index 11–16, vein islet number 9–15, and palisade ratio 3.5–6.5. (8,10)
Phytochemical Composition
Boerhaavia diffusa is a rich origin of various phytochemicals, including alkaloids, flavonoids, glycosides, steroids, terpenoids, and lignans?(2),?(5),?(14). These substances are significantly involved in the plant's pharmacological activities and therapeutic properties (14,19).
Key Phytochemicals Identified
|
Chemical classes |
Name of compound |
Activity reported |
|
Alkaloids |
Punarnavine
|
One of the main alkaloids in Boerhaavia diffusa is punarnavine which has a reputation for immunomodulatory as well as anti-inflammatory activities (5,12,20). Studies have demonstrated its potential in regulating the immune response and decreasing inflammation? (20). |
|
Flavonoids |
C-methylflavone, dihydroxy-dimethoxyflavone, and trihydroxyflavone
|
Flavonoids such as C-methylflavone, dihydroxy-dimethoxyflavone, and trihydroxyflavone are present in?Boerhaavia diffusa (5). These substances exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and hepatoprotective properties. Boeravinone B, a flavonoid, is particularly noted for its therapeutic properties (15,17) |
|
Rotenoids |
Boeravinones A to J group |
Boeravinones A to J are a group of rotenoids isolated from Boerhaavia diffusa (5),?(15). These compounds have different biological actions, including anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties?(5). Boeravinone-C has been identified as a potential anti-obesity drug candidate (19) |
|
Glycosides |
Antifibrinolytic glycoside |
Punarnavoside is an antifibrinolytic glycoside found in?Boerhaavia diffusa (15,16). Other glycosides, such as 2-O-D-galactopyranosyl-(12)-O-D-galactopyranoside eupalitin, have also been identified?(5). |
|
Steroids |
Boerhavisterol and Ecdysone |
Boerhaavia diffusa contains steroids like boerhavisterol and Ecdysone?(14),?(15). These compounds have shown a variety of pharmacological activities, such as those that reduce inflammation and immunomodulatory effects (19). |
|
Lignans |
Liriodendrin and Syringaresinol mono--D-glucoside |
Liriodendrin and syringaresinol mono--D-glucoside are lignans present in?Boerhaavia diffusa (5),?(2). Liriodendrin exhibits anti-myocardial ischemia, anti-arrhythmic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties?(2). |
|
Phenolic Compounds |
Trans-caftaric acid and Boerhavic acid |
Phenolic acids like trans-caftaric acid as well as boerhavic acid are found in?Boerhaavia diffusa (15). These substances support the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant characteristics of the plant. (15). |
The presence of these diverse phytochemicals underscores the therapeutic potential of?Boerhaavia diffusa (8) The synergistic action of these compounds is believed to contribute to the plant's broad range of pharmacological activities?(14,19).
Pharmacological Activities
Boerhaavia diffusa is recognized for its significant antioxidant activity, primarily attributed to the presence of polyphenols and flavonoids?(25),(26). These compounds act as potent scavengers of unstable molecules called free radicals can harm cells and play a role in the emergence of a few illnesses. The antioxidant properties of Boerhaavia diffusa help protect the body against oxidative stress, a condition linked to chronic inflammation, aging, and an increased risk of cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and neurodegenerative disorders. Methanolic extracts of Boerhaavia diffusa have demonstrated potent scavenging activity against free radicals, highlighting the plant's ability to neutralize harmful molecules? (28). The antioxidant properties contribute to its therapeutic effects in various diseases, making it a valuable component in traditional medicine? (14). Through the reduction of oxidative stress, Boerhaavia diffusa promotes the health of cells and overall well-being.
The anti-inflammatory effects of Boerhaavia diffusa are well-documented, making it a beneficial remedy for treating inflammatory conditions (1-5). One of the causes of inflammation is complex biological reactions to damage or infection, manifested as pain, swelling, redness, and heat. Acute inflammation, however, is essential for healing; chronic inflammation can cause tissue damage and play a role in the emergence of a few illnesses, such as arthritis, asthma, and inflammatory bowel disease. Its anti-inflammatory action is explained by the existence of flavonoids and other bioactive substances, which prevent pro-inflammatory mediators from being produced (9). These compounds interfere with the inflammatory cascade, reducing the release of cytokines, enzymes, and other substances that promote inflammation. These effects have been evidenced by several in vitro and in vivo investigations, providing scientific evidence for the plant's traditional use in treating inflammatory disorders (2). By modulating the inflammatory response, Boerhaavia diffusa helps alleviate symptoms and promote healing in various inflammatory conditions.
Boerhaavia diffusa exhibits notable immunomodulatory effects, enhancing the immunological system of the body's response and supporting its capability to fight infections and diseases (14,25). To protect the body from pathogens like bacteria, viruses, and fungi, the immune system is a sophisticated network of cells, tissues, and organs. Immunomodulation involves regulating the immunological system to achieve a balanced and effective response. It acts as an immunostimulant, benefiting conventional applications and promoting overall immune health?(9). The plant's immunomodulatory properties are valuable in treating immune-related disorders, such as autoimmune diseases and immunodeficiency syndromes?(1). By enhancing immune cell activity and modulating the manufacturing cytokines, Boerhaavia diffusa helps strengthen the body's defenses and improve its capacity to combat infection and maintain overall health.
4.1. Mechanisms of Liver Protection
Boerhaavia diffusa is highly valued for its hepatoprotective activity, which involves protecting the liver from damage caused by various factors such as toxins, infections, and oxidative stress (2,25). The liver, being the primary organ responsible for detoxification, is particularly vulnerable to injury. The hepatoprotective properties of Boerhaavia diffusa are attributed to its ability to modulate intermediary metabolism and support the synthesis of essential plasma proteins?(24). It helps maintain liver function by promoting enzymatic activities and bile excretion, further contributing to its protective effects?(24). The plant's hepatoprotective mechanisms involve several key processes, including antioxidant activity, anti-inflammatory action, and modulation of liver enzymes. By reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, Boerhaavia diffusa helps prevent liver cell damage and promote regeneration. It also supports the liver's detoxification functions, helping in the removal of harmful substances away from the body.
4.2. Studies on Liver Disorders
Numerous researches have demonstrated the effectiveness of Boerhaavia diffusa in the treatment of different liver disorders, providing scientific validation for its traditional use in liver health. Studies have shown that Boerhaavia diffusa is effective against drug-induced hepatotoxicity, protecting the liver from damage caused by medications and other toxic substances?(U., 2022). It has been used traditionally for treating jaundice and other liver ailments, reflecting its long-standing reputation as a liver tonic?(26). Extracts from the plant have demonstrated significant hepatoprotective roles in animal models, further supporting its therapeutic potential?(21). These studies have shown that Boerhaavia diffusa can reverse liver damage, reduce inflammation, and enhance indicators of liver function in animals exposed to hepatotoxic agents. These findings underscore The capacity of the plant to protect and restore liver health.
4.3. Active Compounds Responsible
The hepatoprotective effects of Boerhaavia diffusa are largely attributed to the presence of specific phytochemicals, like punarnavine and boeravinone, that display potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant characteristics (12). These compounds possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that contribute to liver protection, helping to prevent cellular damage and promote tissue repair?(15).
Liriodendrin, a lignan found in Boerhaavia diffusa, also contributes to its hepatoprotective potential, further enhancing its ability to protect the liver?(2). These active compounds work synergistically to protect the liver from injury and promote its overall health. By targeting multiple pathways involved in liver damage, Boerhaavia diffusa offers a comprehensive approach to liver protection and regeneration.
5.1. Role in Kidney Health
Boerhaavia diffusa is well-regarded for its renoprotective properties, which involve supporting kidney function and aiding in the treatment of kidney disorders?(14). The kidneys are essential for controlling fluid balance, removing waste from the blood, and preserving electrolyte levels. The plant supports kidney function and helps in managing urinary tract disorders, contributing to overall urinary health?(1). The plant's diuretic activity assists in flushing out the renal system, promoting the removal of waste products and surplus fluids from the body?(20). By supporting kidney function and promoting detoxification, Boerhaavia diffusa helps maintain overall health and well-being.
5.2. Diuretic Mechanisms
The diuretic effect of Boerhaavia diffusa is a key aspect of its renoprotective properties and has been well-documented in traditional medicine?(5). Diuretics are substances that promote increased urine production, which helps to eliminate excess fluids and toxins from the body. It promotes enhanced production of urine, improving renal function and helping the body rid itself of toxins function?(16). This diuretic action is beneficial in treating edema and urinary infections, helping to alleviate symptoms and promote healing?(1). The diuretic mechanisms of Boerhaavia diffusa are believed to involve the plant's capacity to enhance renal blood flow and rate of glomerular filtration. By promoting diuresis, Boerhaavia diffusa helps reduce fluid retention, lower blood pressure, and support kidney health.
5.3. Experimental Evidence
Experimental studies have provided valuable evidence supporting the renoprotective effects of Boerhaavia diffusa, demonstrating its potential in treating kidney disorders. Animal studies have shown the Renoprotective impacts of Boerhaavia diffusa in representations of kidney damage, showing its ability to protect the kidneys from injury?(17). The plant's extracts have demonstrated the potential to improve kidney role markers and reduce oxidative stress, further supporting its therapeutic potential?(21). Clinical investigations are needed to further validate these findings in humans and establish the plant's efficacy and safety in treating kidney diseases?(14). These investigations would supply insightful information on the plant's modes of action and its potential benefits for human health. By conducting rigorous clinical trials, researchers can decide on the best dose, course of therapy, and any adverse effects of Boerhaavia diffusa in the treatment of kidney disorders.
6.1. Hypoglycemic Effects
Boerhaavia diffusa has garnered attention for its hypoglycemic activity, making it a valuable natural remedy for managing diabetes (2,25). Diabetes is a long-term metabolic disease marked by high blood sugar levels, which can cause various health issues, including heart disease, kidney damage, and nerve damage. The plant is considered a valuable remedy for diabetes in traditional systems of medicine, where it has been used for centuries to help regulate blood sugar levels?(26). It helps to decrease blood glucose levels and enhance insulin sensitivity, contributing to better glycemic control. By lowering blood sugar levels, Boerhaavia diffusa helps prevent the long-term complications associated with diabetes and improve overall health outcomes.
6.2. Active Compounds and Mechanisms
The anti-diabetic effects of Boerhaavia diffusa are attributed to several key phytochemicals, including flavonoids and polyphenols, which act through various mechanisms to regulate glucose metabolism. These compounds may act by enhancing insulin secretion, improving glucose uptake, or inhibiting carbohydrate digestion, all of which contribute to lower blood sugar levels?(21). Boeravinone-C has been identified as a potential antiobesity drug candidate targeting pancreatic lipase, suggesting its role in regulating fat metabolism and indirectly influencing glucose control?(19). These findings highlight the multifaceted mechanisms through which Boerhaavia diffusa exerts its anti-diabetic effects. By focusing on certain glucose metabolism-related pathways and insulin sensitivity, the plant offers a comprehensive approach to managing diabetes.
6.3. Clinical and Experimental Studies
Numerous studies have examined the anti-diabetic potential of Boerhaavia diffusa, providing valuable information about its effectiveness and modes of action. Studies have shown that Boerhaavia diffusa extracts can alleviate hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia in diabetic rats, demonstrating their both in vivo and in vitro experimental settings (21). The plant has demonstrated significant antidiabetic properties in both in vitro and in vivo models, further supporting its therapeutic potential?(14). Further clinical tests are necessary to verify its effectiveness and security in humans, establishing its role as a reliable treatment option for diabetes (14). These trials would provide valuable information on the treatment's length, ideal dose, and any adverse effects of Boerhaavia diffusa in managing diabetes. By conducting rigorous clinical studies, researchers can determine the plant's true potential as an anti-diabetic agent and integrate it into modern healthcare practices.
7.1. Mechanisms of Action
Boerhaavia diffusa has shown promising anticancer and anti-proliferative characteristics, which makes it a topic of attention in research on cancer. The plant possesses anticancer and anti-proliferative properties, preventing the proliferation of cancerous cells and potentially preventing the spread of the disease?(5,25). The plant's extracts have shown potential in cancer chemoprevention, suggesting its function in halting the growth of cancer in high-risk individuals?(25). It induces apoptosis and inhibits DNA synthesis in cancer cells, contributing to its anticancer effects?(30). The mechanisms of action underlying Boerhaavia diffusa's anticancer properties involve several key processes, consisting of apoptosis induction, inhibition of cell proliferation, and modulation of the immune system. By inducing apoptosis, the plant selectively kills cancer cells without harming healthy cells.
7.2. Studies on Cancer Cell Lines
Research on various cancer cell lines has provided valuable insights into the anticancer potential of Boerhaavia diffusa, demonstrating its efficacy against different types of cancer cells. Research indicates that Boerhaavia diffusa extracts have antiproliferative effects on HeLa cells (cervical cancer), suggesting their potential in treating cervical cancer?(30). It can inhibit the proliferation of different cancer cell lines, such as lymphoma and erythroleukemic cells, further demonstrating its broad-spectrum anticancer activity?(27). The plant's bioactive fractions demonstrate significant anticancer activity, highlighting the importance of identifying and isolating these compounds for therapeutic use?(23). These studies have shown that Boerhaavia diffusa can effectively stop the growth and spread in vitro of cancer cells, providing a strong rationale for further investigation of its anticancer properties.
7.3. Potential Therapeutic Applications
The anticancer potential of Boerhaavia diffusa holds significant promise for the development of new therapeutic strategies in cancer treatment and prevention. Punarnavine, an alkaloid from Boerhaavia diffusa, exhibits antigenotoxic properties, potentially beneficial for cancer prevention by protecting DNA from damage? (20). The plant's anticancer potential makes it a candidate for further investigation in cancer therapy, warranting more research to explore its clinical applications? (14). Further investigation is required to clarify the specific molecular methods and clinical applications, guiding the development of targeted cancer therapies?(14). By conducting rigorous preclinical and clinical studies, researchers can determine the plant's efficacy, safety, and optimal use in cancer treatment and prevention.
8.1. Anti-microbial Activities
Boerhaavia diffusa exhibits a range of other pharmacological properties, including significant antibacterial properties that combat a range of bacteria and fungi, making it a useful organic antibiotic?(14). It is efficient against germs that are both Gram-positive and Gram-negative, proving its broad-spectrum antimicrobial potential. The plant's decoction shows wide-ranging antimicrobial potential, highlighting its capacity to combat a variety of infections. The antimicrobial activity of Boerhaavia diffusa is attributed to the existence of several bioactive substances, including terpenoids, flavonoids, and alkaloids, which interfere with microbial growth and survival. These compounds damage the membranes of bacteria, prevent the formation of proteins, and obstruct other necessary microbial procedures. By targeting multiple mechanisms, Boerhaavia diffusa offers a comprehensive approach to combating microbial infections.
8.2. Anti-stress and Adaptogenic Effects
Additionally, the plant is valued due to its anti-stress and adaptogenic qualities, assisting the body in managing stress and fostering general health.?(1,25). Adaptogens are organic compounds that assist the body in adjusting to stress, whether it is biological, chemical, or physical. They work by modulating the body's stress response system, reducing the negative impacts of stress on various organs and systems. It aids in stress management-related disorders and promotes general health and welfare, contributing to better mental and physical health?(2). Studies indicate that Boerhaavia diffusa has significant anxiolytic activity, further supporting its role in managing stress and anxiety?(32). By lowering tension levels and encouraging rest, Boerhaavia diffusa helps enhance mood, enhance mental abilities, and support overall life quality.
8.3. Spasmolytic Effects
Boerhaavia diffusa exhibits spasmolytic effects, making it useful in treating gastrointestinal disorders characterized by smooth muscle spasms? (22). Spasms are sudden, involuntary contractions of muscles, which can cause pain, discomfort, and impaired function in the gastrointestinal tract. Rotenoid derivatives isolated from the plant contribute to its spasmolytic activity, relaxing the smooth muscles and alleviating spasms? (22). These effects are beneficial in managing disorders of the digestive system, such as IBS (irritable bowel syndrome), as well as other gastrointestinal disorders?(22). By reducing the smooth muscles in the digestive system, Boerhaavia diffusa helps relieve abdominal pain, cramping, and bloating associated with these conditions
Therapeutic Applications of?Boerhaavia Diffusa
Boerhaavia diffusa is used in conventional medicine for treating a variety of ailments, including diabetes, inflammation, stress, hepatotoxicity, jaundice, heart failure, and renal disorders?(26),?(34),?(35). Its therapeutic importance is attributed to the presence of polyphenols and flavonoids, which contribute to its antioxidant, hepatoprotective, antibiotic, antidiabetic, and anticarcinogenic properties? (26).
Boerhaavia diffusa is used extensively in Indian traditional medicine for treating renal diseases, such as urolithiasis caused by calcium oxalate (CaOx)(35),?(36). The aqueous extract of?B. diffusa roots (BDE) significantly reduced oxalate excretion, improved antioxidant enzyme activity, and reduced levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) in hyperoxaluric rats (35). The treatment also inhibited the CaOx deposition crystals and harm to kidney cells, demonstrating its protective effect against urolithiasis-related renal cell damage and hyperoxaluric oxidative stress (35).B. diffusa Linn's herbal extract prevented struvite crystal formation in vitro, suggesting its potential in preventing or dissolving urinary stones?(36).
The antidiabetic and hypolipidemic effects of?B. diffusa make it a beneficial therapeutic agent in the prevention and treatment of diabetes and diabetes-linked hyperlipidemia?(21),?(Nalamolu, 2007). Firoz Akhter?et al. showed that the methanolic root the B. diffusa extract significantly alleviated Glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and fasting blood glucose (FBG) levels in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced rats with diabetes?(21). The extract also improved the plasma lipid profile and fixed the activity of enzymes for antioxidants, suggesting its beneficial effects in managing diabetes and diabetes-linked hyperlipidemia?(21).
Boerhaavia diffusa has shown potential in treating benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)?(31). Bhavin Vyas?et al. (2013) discovered that the hydroalcoholic extract of?B. diffusa roots resulted in significant inhibition of prostate growth in testosterone-induced BPH in rats?(31). The?in vitro analysis suggested that the extract attenuated contractile responses to applied agonists, indicating its potential to improve BPH symptoms and inhibit increased prostate size?(31).
the protective impact of the ethanolic extract of?Boerhaavia diffusa (BDE) against angiotensin II (Ang II) mitochondrial dysfunction-caused H9c2 cardiomyoblast cells to proliferate. (37). The study revealed that BDE considerably inhibited the production of free radicals and protected mitochondrial function by avoiding the release of mitochondrial membrane potential and permeability transition pore swelling?(37). These findings suggest that?B. diffusa has potential therapeutic applications in cardiovascular disorders?(37).
Boerhaavia diffusa has furthermore been traditionally used in treating jaundice, dyspepsia, swelling of the spleen, and stomach discomfort, and as a stress reliever (30). There have been reports of its antiaging, disease-prevention, and life-strengthening properties. Making it a valuable herb in traditional medicine?(34). The plant's ethnopharmacological publications highlight its function in illnesses of reproductive, gastrointestinal, respiratory, urinary, cardiovascular, hepatic, and jaundice systems, as well as cancer?(34).
Safety And Toxicity
While Boerhaavia diffusa has been utilized in traditional medicine for generations. It is essential to consider its safety and potential toxicity (5). Additional investigation is required to establish the safety profile of B. diffusa extracts and isolated compounds, as well as to determine the appropriate dosages for therapeutic use (5).
Future Directions
Boerhaavia diffusa holds great potential for future research and development in various fields of medicine (26), (34). Further study is required to:
CONCLUSION
Many pharmacological effects and a long history of traditional usage make Boerhaavia diffusa Linn. an important medicinal plant. (26),?(5). Its varied phytochemistry supports its hepatoprotective, immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antidiabetic, and antioxidant qualities. (5),?(26),?(28). Prostatic hyperplasia, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and renal illnesses are among the conditions for which the plant has shown promise. (21),?(31) To completely understand its mechanisms of action, confirm its therapeutic effectiveness, and guarantee its safety for general usage, more study is required. (26),?(34). Boerhaavia diffusa is a potentially useful natural resource for creating new medicinal medicines and enhancing human health. (26).
REFERENCES
Nalavade P. A., Patil S. K., Patil Y. N., Nandrekar A. N., Palake G. J., Jadhav V. S., M. S. Patil*, Dr. D. R. Jadage, A Comprehensive Review on Boerhaavia Diffusa Linn: Phytochemistry, Pharmacology, And Therapeutic Application, Int. J. of Pharm. Sci., 2025, Vol 3, Issue 5, 1983-1995 https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15388735
10.5281/zenodo.15388735
