Cardiospermum halicacabum Linn.: Food and Drug

Abstract

Medicinal plants are natural sources of bioactive phytochemical constituents which, for the physiological actions produced on the human organism, can be used against many diseases. For this reason, it is necessary for medicinal plants to be assessed for their phytochemistry in order to ascertain the potential of these indigenous sources of medicinal products. Today, people around the world are interested in using herbal medicines rather than synthetic drugs because of their minor side effects and low cost; however, there is little scientific evidence for the healing properties of these natural drugs. Scientific validation of their properties is required for their safe use. Cardiospermum halicacabum L., from the family Sapindaceae, is a widespread perennial plant, different parts of which have been used by indigenous populations in various parts of the world both as food and in the treatment of many pathologies. Knowledge of the plant's chemical components and their standardization and in vitro and in vivo experimentation to evaluate its pharmacological activity are means by which the quality of the drug and its possible toxicity can be controlled and adulterations with other similar species can be revealed in order to guarantee the safety and well-being of the consumer. The complex chemical composition and multiplicity of applications of C. halicacabum L. have attracted the attention of researchers who, applying modern methodologies, have ascertained the safety and validity of its use in the treatment of many pathologies.

The Effectiveness of Titanium Dioxide Sunscreen in Combination with Skin Defensil Plus® as an Anti-inflammatory Agent against Ultraviolet Radiation

“…Natural chemicals, such as oils from plants and fruits, and antioxidants, have long-term beneficial effects, especially on skin damaged by free radicals from UV exposure [13]. R. nigrum (Black Currant) seed oil, C. halicacabum Flower/Leaf/Vine Extract, R. officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, and Tocopherol have anti-inflammatory effects and antioxidant activity that can repair cell damage caused by UV exposure [14]. Tocopherol protects the skin from the negative effects of solar radiation by acting as a free radical scavenger.…”

A Comprehensive Review on <i>Cardiospermum halicacabum</i>

“…Each part of the plant is beneficial and is used as food and for the treatment of specific diseases. The complex chemical structure and wide range of applications of this plant have captured the interest of researchers who have verified the validity and safety of its utilization in the treatment of several diseases using modern methodologies 5 . The medicinal plant Cardiospermum halicacabum is known as 'karnasphota' in the traditional system of medicine (Table 2).…”

Cardiospermum halicacabum in atopic dermatitis: Clinical evidence based on phytotherapic approach

“…Cardiospermum halicacabum L 13 . of the Sapindaceae family is an herbaceous plant widespread in India, South America, and central Africa.…”