Cyperus scariosus R.Br. - An update

Abstract

Cyperus scariosus, a perennial herb plant native to India is an invasive weed with wide distribution. It remained to be an important ingredient of several prescriptions used in indigenous system of medicine to treat a variety of diseases including diarrhea, epilepsy, gonorrhea, syphilis and liver damage. Recent studies highlight its phytochemistry, bioactivity and therapeutic uses. Major chemical components of this herb are alkaloids, flavonols, glycosides, polyphenols, saponins, sesquiterpenoids and essential oil responsible for its claimed traditional importance as one of the potential medicinal herb. Cyperiol, the essential oil obtained on steam distillation of the rhizomes contains about 100 compounds, has its value in perfumary and account for the antibacterial, antifungal, insecticidal and ovicidal activity. Complete information regarding the plant species has been collected from various books and journals and internet databases. This communication aims to integrate all the information available on C. scariosus which may help academicians, agronomists, environmentalists, biological scientists and researchers to explore the potential of this commonly growing weed. Further the data generated would be useful for the pharmaceutical industry.