A review of medicinal uses, phytochemistry and pharmacology of Vigna mungo (L.) Hepper

Abstract

Vigna mungo (L.) Hepper belongs to the family Papilionaceae. It is an erect hairy annual plant with long twining branches. The flowers are small and yellow in color, while fruits are cylindrical. The pods are hairy containing 1-4 seeds per pod. Seeds are used as nervine tonic and in urinary reflex disorder. The phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of flavonoids, saponins, tannins, alkaloids, vitamin C and steroids. Seeds posses antidiabetic, antioxidant and hypolipidemic properties. The present review provides an updated information on its medicinal uses, phytochemistry and pharmacology.