Abstract

MEDICINAL IMPORTANCE OF SAUROPUS ANDROGYNOUS–A BRIEF REVIEW STUDY

Sujatha R. and Palaksha M. N.*

ABSTRACT

The role of traditional medicines in the solution of health problems is invaluable on a global level. Medicinal plants continue to provide valuable therapeutic agents, both in modern and traditional medicine. Sauropus androgynous(SA), also called star gooseberry, is a tropical shrub grown as a leafy vegetable. It is from Euphorbiaceae family. Previous studies have reported the prospective of this plant as antioxidant, antimicrobial, wound healing, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, and antiobesity agent as well as its potential to increase breast milk production. Despite these pharmacological properties, consumption of its raw leaf juice for weight reduction resulted in outbreak of bronchiolitis obliterans. Further studies should be made in order to fully understand the cytotoxicity of this plant, mechanism of toxicity, dosages and ways of consumption, and effects on human health.

Keywords: Sauropus androgynous, Euphorbiaceae anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, and antiobesity.