A review on medicinal uses, pharmacology and phytochemistry of Aristolochia tagala Cham. An endangered medicinal plant

Abstract

Aristolochia tagala L. (Aristolochiaceae) has long been used in Indian subcontinent in the traditional system of medicine to treat cholera, fever, bowel troubles, ulcers, leprosy, skin diseases, menstrual problems and snakebites. The plant is also used as emmenagogue, abortifacient, antineoplastic, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antipyretic, antifertility and antispermatogenic agent. Aristolochic acid, a major active constituent of the plant is reported to cause cancer, nephropathy, sister chromatid exchange and is a potent abortifacient. This study was carried out to compile all available data in the review form on the basis of its distribution, medicinal uses, pharmacology and phytochemistry.