Leucas aspera: A wild traditional green leafy vegetable with immense pharmacological properties
Author(s): Kanneboina Soujanya, B Anila Kumari and E Jyothsna
Abstract: The use of plants in the treatment of various diseases was as old as mankind. They were an important part of traditional medicine in different places of the world. Leucas aspera was a very common weed in Africa, Asia, temperate and tropical countries. Due to its potential medicinal properties whole plant was used in traditional medicine to treat various health problems. Plant had antimicrobial, antioxidant, Larvicidal, Antinociceptive, hepatoprotective, anti-hyperglycemic, anticancer, Anti-inflammatory, wound healing and antiulcer activities. Roots, stems, leaves and flowers of Leucas aspera were found to have high antibacterial activity against various bacteria. Different extracts of leaves had an anabolic effect and hepatoprotective activity, antidiabetic and anti-venom activity; roots had analgesic activity, aerial parts exhibit ulcer protective and anti -arthritis effect and the whole plant had the potential of anthelminthic activity, cytotoxic activity. The plant is also had food value and is used during festivals like Vinayaka Chavithi. Lack of awareness on the uses and importance, the plant is treated as underutilised.
