Pharmacognostic Properties of Quisqualis indica Linn: Against Human Pathogenic Microorganisms: An Insight Review

Abstract

India has a large repository of medicinal plants that are used in traditional medical treatments. Several medicinal plants are useful for treating common ailments and some of the plants include Amla (Emblica cinalis), Ashoka (Saraca asoca), Aswagandha (Withania somnifera), Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum), Sarpa Gandha (Rauwolfia serpentina), Sandalwood (Santalum album), Indian birthwort (Aristolochia indica L.), Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri), Neem (Azardirchata indica), Vringraj (Eclipta alba), Grhit kumara (Aloe vera), Harida (Terminalia chebula) and Madhumalati (Quisqualis indica), Catnip (Nepeta cataria), Cayenne pepper (Capsicum annuum), Sage (Salvia officinalis); etc. Quisquails indica commonly known as the Madhu Malati, is a vine with red flower clusters and is found in abundance in India. It shows a wide range of remarkable medicinal properties. Over the last two decades, large scale research has been conducted to identify bio-active constituents of Quisqualis indica therapeutic prospects. This review summarizes the pharmacognostic properties of Quisqualis indica Linn. Against human pathogenic microorganisms. Several authors have reviewed the medicinal properties of Quisqualis indica Linn.but our review summarizes the anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, anti-pyretic, anti-helminthic, anti-diarrheal, anti-hyperglycemic, anti-microbial, anti-fungal and immuno-modulatory properties. It would be useful to students, academicians, microbiologists, as it reduces the need for detailed searching. It serves the purpose of quick reference.