A Comprehensive Review on Abutilon indicum (Linn.): Pharmacological and Phytochemical Insights

Abutilon indicum (Linn.) Sweet, commonly known as Indian mallow, is a medicinal shrub belonging to the Malvaceae family. It is widely utilized in traditional medicinal systems such as Ayurveda, Siddha, and Unani. Various parts of the plant, including the leaves, roots, seeds, and flowers, are employed in the treatment of diverse ailments like inflammation, diabetes, respiratory disorders, wounds, piles, and liver-related conditions. It is also used as a demulcent, diuretic, and expectorant. Modern pharmacological research has validated several of these ethnomedicinal claims, reporting antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, antimicrobial, analgesic, and antioxidant properties. Phytochemical investigations have revealed the presence of bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, alkaloids, saponins, tannins, and glycosides, which contribute to its therapeutic potential. Studies on its pharmacological actions have demonstrated promising results both in vitro and in vivo, supporting its role as a candidate for drug development. Despite its wide traditional usage, further clinical studies and toxicological evaluations are essential to confirm its safety and efficacy in humans. This review compiles comprehensive data on the plant’s taxonomy, morphology, ethnomedicinal applications, phytochemical constituents, pharmacological properties, and toxicity profile, and highlights future prospects for its development as a natural therapeutic agent.