TRADITIONAL USES, PHYTOCHEMISTRY AND PHARMACOLOGICAL ACTIVITIES OF Articum lappa

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  Surbhi Jangir, Ritu Rawat, Rohitashav Sharma

• Surbhi Jangir, Ritu Rawat, Rohitashav Sharma
• TRADITIONAL USES, PHYTOCHEMISTRY AND PHARMACOLOGICAL ACTIVITIES OF Articum lappa

Abstract

Arctium lappa L., a widely distributed medicinal and edible plant in the Asteraceae family, is rich in phytochemicals. The plant's roots, with cylindrical shapes and brown skin, have been historically used in traditional medicine for various health concerns. Commonly known as Niubang in China, gobo in Japanese, and repejnik in Russia, burdock has been employed for issues ranging from gastrointestinal complaints to skin conditions. Its stem, featuring crimson violet flower heads, reaches a height of 1 meter, while the root extends up to 45–50 cm in depth. Arctium lappa diverse compounds include volatile oils, lignans, sesquiterpene lactones, polyynes, and caffeic acid derivatives. Pharmacologically, A. lappa exhibits antibacterial, anti inflammatory, and anti-fatigue activities. Its extract has proven effective against Bacillus subtilis and Candida albicans. Additionally, A. lappa demonstrates antiviral activity against porcine circovirus type 2. The plant's anti-diabetic potential is evident in glucose tolerance improvement and insulin secretion suppression. It also displays anticancer effects, causing cytotoxic and genotoxic effects on root meristem cells. This comprehensive overview underscores the multifaceted properties of Arctium lappa, making it a valuable subject for further exploration in pharmaceutical and therapeutic applications.