Discovered gem “Martynia annua L.” A multi-disease curing plant

Abstract

India is a land of herbal medicines in a tremendous amount which have been used in treating various diseases since ancient times till the modern world. Martynia annua L. is one of those, pronounced in different names like vichchida in Gujarati, devil’s or cat’s claws in English, kakanashika in Sanskrit, and ulatkanta in Hindi. Martynia annua L., a member of the genus Martyniaceae, is an herbaceous species whose traditional use in India has been rich in medicinal applications. This review article is based on the plant's, phytoconstituents and pharmacological activities. The plant's morphology, taxonomy, and classification are presented with emphasis on its distribution and habitat. Phytochemical screening confirms phenols, steroids, carbohydrates, and anthocyanins, which all have medicinal properties. Different parts of the plant, such as leaves, fruits, flowers, and roots, have been proven to be anti-epileptic, anti-oxidant, wound healing, and gastro-protective, cytotoxic, central nervous system depressant, antinociceptive, anthelmintic, anti-fertility, antipyretic, analgesic, and anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-cancer activities. The present review describes the importance of Martynia annua L. as a natural remedy source for many diseases as enlisted above, with the need for continuing research on this plant to bring out its more therapeutic benefits.