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Abstract

ABSTRACT:Since ancient times, herbal drugs are used in traditional system of medicine such as Siddha, Ayurveda and Unani. The allopathic system of medicine adopted many medicinal plants to derive newer molecules for challenging diseases. The plant Indigofera aspalathoides which is well known as 'Sivanar vembu' is widely used for skin diseases. Phytochemical and Pharmacological researchers have screened it for its anti-cancerous and antioxidant property. This review focuses all updated information about its authentication, phytochemistry and pharmacology. The phytochemical evaluation of the plant showed phenolic compounds, tannin, alkaloides, triterpenes, flavones, saponin and steroids. This drug is widely screened for its anti-cancerous and anti-oxidant activity. Anti-microbial, hypoglycemic, hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory and antiviral activity were also reported. A thailam (oil prepared by traditional extraction procedure) prepared from this plant is widely used by the Siddha practioners for various ailments. This review focuses the lot of medicinal properties of the plant through the scientific validation and strongly supports the traditional claim.