ISOLATION AND CHARACTERIZATION OF SEED OF SPHAERANTHUS INDICUS AND ITS THERAPEUTIC PROPERTIES

Sphaeranthus indicus Linn.(Asteraceae), commonly known as Gorakhmundi, is highly reputed weed in traditional Indian systems of medicine, extensively utilized for treating diverse ailments. While the aerial parts and flower heads are widely studied, the phytochemical profile and therapeutic potential of its seed remain less explored.[1] The plant found in India, Africa, Australia, Indo-Malesia and Srilanka, has numerous medicinal properties , including antitussive, wound healing, broncho dilatory, antioxidant and CNS depressant properties.[2] Sphaeranthus indicus is rich in diverse secondary metabolites, including eudesmanolides, sesquiterpenoids, sesquiterpene lactones, sesquiterpene acids, flavone glycosides, flavonoids C-glycosides, is flavone glycoside, sterols, sterol glycosides, alkaloids, peptide alkaloids, amino acids, and sugars. Essential oils extracted from its flowers and whole plants contain monoterpene hydrocarbons, oxygenated monoterpenes, sesquiterpene hydrocarbons, oxygenated sesquiterpenes. Sphaeranthus indicus demonstrates a broa spectrum of pharmacological activities across its various formulations, making it a versatile herb in both traditional and modern medicinal practices. From cream and ointments for topical relief to syrups and capsules for systemic benefits, each formulation harnesses the herb’s therapeutic potential supported by scientific evidence.[2] Although extensively reviewed in previous literature, this review aims to explore its Siddha and Ayurvedic uses, in addition to its biological effects and botanical compounds characteristics. It encompasses the structure, botanical compounds composition, ethnobotanical uses, and pharmacological activities reported for Sphaeranthus indicus.[2]