A Review on Himalayan Balsam (Impatiens Glandulifera)

Impatiens glandulifera belongs to family Balsaminaceae. It is found in the foothills of the western Himalaya, i.e. India, Pakistan, Nepal and also in European countries. Different parts of the plant has been used to treat various ailments. It is effective in joint pain. Plant seeds are chewed or seed oil is used as tonic and for the treatment of anxiety. The root extract or paste made from roots are applied to cool hands and feet. Roots, leaves and flowers powders and decoctions are used for depression and hypnosis. It is very good antidote for snake bites. Paste of leaves is applied externally to treat burns. The infusion from flowers is used for eye washes. Flowers are used as cathartic, diuretic, and emetic. Impatiens glandulifera has been reported to have anti-oxidant, anti-microbial, anti-proliferative, anti-cancer activity and also effective for some nervous system disorders. The main phytoconstituents found in plant are flavonoids, quinones, terpenes, sterols, coumarins, fatty acids, volatile compounds, essential oils.