Harshringar (Nyctanthes arbour-tristis): Phytochemistry, pharmacological and therapeutic potential

Abstract

This review article presents phytochemistry, pharmacological and therapeutic potential of Nyctanthes arbor?tristis. In this review, various biological activities, particularly, that is, anti-protozoic, anti-microbial, anti-viral, 
anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, histamine-mediated activities, anti-oxidant, anti-diabetic, hepatoprotective, anti?rheumatoid arthritis, insecticidal, immunomodulatory, wound healing and sedative. The plant contains important 
bioactive constituents, including iridoid glycosides, flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, and sterols, which contribute to 
its therapeutic effects. The plant exhibits promising anti-cancer activity by inducing apoptosis, inhibiting cellular 
proliferation, and reducing oxidative stress, with compounds such as arbortristoside A, calceolarioside A, and 
?-sitosterol showing notable cytotoxic potential. This plant has wider therapeutic applications and is used in 
traditional medicine by local people for cold, cough and fever. Its hot water concoction is used for pain relief and 
gastrointestinal problems. No doubt, the Harshringar plant is a big depository of natural products which could be 
used for drug development. It is suggested that further clinical studies are required to establish its safety, efficacy 
and therapeutic applicability.