Abstract

A COMPREHENSIVE INTEGRATIVE REVIEW ON INDIGOFERA TINCTORIA LINN (NEELINI): BRIDGING CLASSICAL AYURVEDIC KNOWLEDGE WITH PHYTOCHEMICAL AND PHARMACOLOGICAL EVIDENCE

Dr. Shivpriya*, Dr. Ekta Saini, Dr. Ayush Kapoor, Dr. Akshita Rana

Abstract

Background: Neelini (Indigofera tinctoria Linn.) is a classical Ayurvedic medicinal plant described in traditional texts for the management of Kuṣṭha and Rakta-related disorders. Despite its extensive traditional usage and wide geographical availability, its pharmacological potential remains inadequately integrated with contemporary scientific evidence. Methods: A comprehensive integrative review was conducted using classical Ayurvedic literature alongside peer-reviewed scientific studies retrieved from PubMed, Google Scholar, and related databases, with emphasis on phytochemistry, pharmacological activities, and toxicological evaluation. Results: Classical literature identifies Neelini (Indigofera tinctoria Linn.) as therapeutically relevant in dermatological and Rakta-associated disorders. Phytochemical investigations reveal the presence of indole alkaloids such as indirubin along with flavonoids, phenolic compounds, and terpenoids. These constituents exhibit diverse pharmacological activities including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, hepatoprotective, antimicrobial, neuropharmacological, and antidiabetic effects. Toxicological studies indicate a favorable safety profile within experimentally studied dose ranges. Conclusion: The available evidence demonstrates a significant convergence between classical Ayurvedic indications and mechanistically supported pharmacological findings. However, lack of clinical validation, standardization, and pharmacokinetic data limits its translational applicability.

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