Asian Journal
Of Traditional Medicines

Abstract: The plant, Abelmoschus manihot Linn, (Malvaceae), has been traditionally used for the treatment of inflammation, pain, urinary infection, and chronic bronchitis. It is widely distributed throughout India, Sri Lanka, and tropical Asia and in northern Queensland and it grows best in tropical and subtropical regions since it is very susceptible to frost. Following folk claims as a cure for a variety of diseases, efforts have been made by researchers to confirm the efficacy of the plant by scientific biological screening. The plant contains saponins, alkaloids, steroids, flavonoids and triterpenoids that are the main phytoconstituents and a careful review. The literature revealed some notable pharmacological effects like anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, anti-bacterial, wound healing, and anti-fungal activities. The present review is an attempt to highlight the various ethanobotanical and traditional Abelmoschus manihot Linn. and also describe the most important phytochemical and pharmacological studies.

Key words: Abelmoschus manihot, malvaceae, phytochemistry, pharmacological activities