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Plant Science Today (PST)

Review Articles

Early Access

Pharmacological efficacy and therapeutic properties of selected Ayurvedic medicinal plants: A scoping review

DOI
https://doi.org/10.14719/pst.10721
Submitted
18 July 2025
Published
31-01-2026
Versions

Abstract

Ayurvedic medicinal plants have long been used for health promotion and disease management. This article explores the pharmacological efficacy and therapeutic properties of six widely used Ayurvedic herbs: Withania somnifera L. (Ashwagandha), Mucuna pruriens (Kapikachu), Sida rhombifolia (Atibala), Cyanthillium cinereum (Sahadevi), Tinospora cordifolia (Guduchi) and Glycyrrhiza glabra (Yashtimadhu). Each of these plants possesses unique bioactive compounds that contribute to their pharmacological effects. Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha) is well-known for its adaptogenic, neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory properties. Mucuna pruriens (Kapikachu) exhibits neuroprotective, aphrodisiac and anti-Parkinsonian activities due to its high L-DOPA content. Sida rhombifolia (Atibala) demonstrates anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and hepatoprotective effects. Cyanthillium cinereum (Sahadevi) is valued for its anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory and detoxifying properties. Tinospora cordifolia (Guduchi) is a potent immunomodulator with anti-diabetic and hepatoprotective actions, while Glycyrrhiza glabra (Yashtimadhu) is widely used for its gastroprotective, anti-ulcer and anti-inflammatory effects. This review highlights their pharmacological mechanisms, therapeutic applications and potential integration into modern medicine. Further clinical research and pharmacological investigations are essential to establish their efficacy and safety in contemporary healthcare systems.

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