Asian Journal
Of Traditional Medicines

Abstract: The plant Hygrophila auriculata (K. Schum) Heine, (Acanthaceae), has been traditionally used for the treatment of inflammation, pain, urinary infection, edema, gout and as a diuretic. It is described in ayurvedic literature as Ikshura, Ikshugandha, and Kokilasha having eyes like the Kokila or Indian Cuckoo. The plant is widely distributed throughout India, Sri Lanka, Burma, Malaysia and Nepal. Following various folk claims as a cure for numerous diseases, efforts have been made by researchers to verify the efficacy of the plant by scientific biological screening. The plant contains saponins, alkaloids, steroids, tannins, flavonoids and triterpenoids are the main phytoconstituents. A scrutiny of literature revealed some notable pharmacological effects like anti-nociceptive, anti-tumor, antioxidant, hepatoprotective, hypoglycemic, haematinic, diuretic, free radical scavenging, anthelmintic, anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, anabolic and androgenic activities. The present review is an attempt to highlight the various ethanobotanical and traditional uses as well as phytochemical and pharmacological reports about Hygrophila auriculata (K. Schum) Heine.

Key words: Hygrophila auriculata, phytochemistry, pharmacological activities