Phytochemistry and Ethnopharmacology of Andrographis Paniculata and Adhatoda Vasaka

Abstract

The pharmacological properties of two herbs traditionally used in herbal medicine, Andrographis Paniculata and Adhatoda Vasaka, are investigated in this study. Both plants have great therapeutic potential by displaying anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial and immunomodulatory activities. This herb, Andrographis Paniculata, with potent anti inflammatory properties, was mainly due to the andrographolide compound and had strong antioxidant activity linked with flavonoids and phenolic compounds. On the contrary, Adhatoda Vasaka exhibited marked antimicrobial and immunomodulatory properties potentially due to alkaloid viz., vasicine, which is used therapeutically in respiratory diseases. Comparative analysis shows both plants contribute to complementary forms of treatments, however Andrographis Paniculata seems to be more efficient in managing inflammation and oxidative stress, while Adhatoda Vasaka may be more suitable for respiratory infections. These findings demonstrate the pharmacological importance of both plants and underscore their traditional uses. Although parallel developments and partial applications have subsequently taken place, these technologies need to be validated in future clinical trials to prove they are efficacious and safe for use in contemporary therapeutic modalities.