Phytochemistry and Antimicrobial Potential of Apang (Achyranthes aspera L.): An Update Review

Abstract

With the increase of synthetic antibiotic resistance and severe side effects, the pharmaceutical industry is interested in finding new drugs from natural sources with fewer or no side-effects. The present review deals with the phytochemical and antimicrobial aspects of Achyranthes aspera- a commonly used folk medicinal plant in Bangladesh and other tropical countries. Different parts of this plant (leaf, root, stem and seed) have been reported to contain some potent secondary metabolites i.e., achyranthene, betaine, saponins, oleanic acid etc. along with other phytochemicals that contain antimicrobial potential. It has also been reported to possesses antiarthritic, antifertility, laxative, ecbolic, abentifacient, anti- helminthic, aphrodisiac, antihypertensive, anti-coagulant, diuretic and anti-tumor activities. This review also includes reports on its taxonomy, secondary metabolites and toxic effects.

Keywords: Achyranthes aspera, phytochemistry, antimicrobial activity, toxicity.