CARDIOSPERMUM HALICACABUM LINN. : A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW OF ITS ETHNOBOTANICAL HERITAGE, PHYTOCHEMISTRY AND MODERN PHARMACOLOGICAL PROFILE

Cardiospermum halicacabum Linn., also known as balloon vine or love-in-a-puff, is a widely distributed medicinal climber belonging to the Sapindaceae family. This species has been used for various medicinal purposes in Ayurvedic, Unani, Chinese, Homeopathic and folk medicines, and has attracted much scientific attention because of its wide pharmacological applications. In Kerala, it is one of the “Dasapushpam” (Ten Sacred Flowers) and has been used to treat inflammatory conditions, rheumatism, diabetes, dermatitis, fever, gastrointestinal disorders, and neurological problems. Phytochemical studies have revealed the presence of flavonoids, phenolic acids, alkaloids, saponins, sterols, terpenoids, triterpenes, glycosides, tannins, fatty acids, and cyanolipids, which together account for its wide pharmacological properties. Experimental studies have established the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, anticancer, antimicrobial, antiviral, hepatoprotective, neuroprotective, antiulcer, antidiarrheal, anxiolytic, antifilarial, antiparasitic, wound-healing, and fertility-promoting properties. Toxicological studies have revealed a favourable safety profile at therapeutic doses. This review aims to integrate the botanical features, phytochemical constituents, traditional uses, pharmacological properties, and therapeutic values of C. halicacabum, and thus emphasizes its importance as a potential natural source for future drug development.