PHYTOCHEMICAL AND PHARMACOLOGICAL REVIEW OF ECBOLIUM VIRIDE (FORSSK.) MERRILL: A PROMISING MEDICINAL PLANT

Abstract

Ecbolium viride (Forssk.) Merrill, a member of the Acanthaceae family, is a medicinal plant traditionally used in Ayurveda and Siddha systems for treating a variety of ailments including fever, jaundice, asthma, inflammation, rheumatism and liver disorders. This review highlights its taxonomy, morphology, phytochemistry and pharmacological activities. Phytochemical analysis reveals the presence of flavonoids (orientin, isoorientin, vitexin, isovitexin), ecbolin A and B, alkaloids, glycosides, and phenolic compounds. Extracts from different parts of the plant-especially roots, leaves, and flowers—have shown significant antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, hepatoprotective, antidiabetic, cytotoxic, and larvicidal effects. Despite its rich ethnomedicinal background and promising bioactivity, comprehensive pharmacological studies, toxicity assessments, and clinical trials remain limited. Ecbolium viride holds great potential as a source of natural drugs and offers valuable opportunities for future pharmaceutical development.