Abstract

A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW OF THE PHARMACOLOGICAL PROPERTIES OF LEUCAS ASPERA

P. Tamilmani*, Dr. K. Rithika, Dr. M. Ranjith, R. Saranmohan and M. Thirumeninathan

Abstract

Leucas aspera, commonly referred to as Thumbai in Tamil, is a widely distributed medicinal herb that thrives in tropical and subtropical climates, particularly across India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and other parts of Southeast Asia. It belongs to the botanical family Lamiaceae, which is known for its aromatic members and as a rich source of bioactive compounds. Leucas aspera has been an integral part of traditional medicine systems such as Ayurveda, Unani, and Siddha, where it is used to manage a wide range of ailments, including fevers, colds, headaches, skin infections, snakebites, and respiratory disorders. The primary objective of this review is to compile, analyze, and present an updated and detailed overview of the current knowledge regarding the botanical description, traditional uses, phytochemical composition, and pharmacological activities of Leucas aspera. This will help identify research gaps and pave the way for the development of novel therapeutic agents derived from this underutilized medicinal herb. Phytochemical investigations have revealed that L. aspera is a rich source of secondary metabolites such as flavonoids, alkaloids, glycosides, phenolic compounds, tannins, terpenoids, and essential oils. These compounds contribute significantly to the plant’s broad spectrum of pharmacological activities, including antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, analgesic, antipyretic, anticancer, and insectrepellent effects.

Keywords: Anti-inflammatory, Antimicrobial, Anticancer activities, Leucas aspera, Medicinal plant.