Abstract

A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW ON GLOBBA MARANTINA LINN.: AN EXTRA-PHARMACOPOEIAL MEDICINAL PLANT WITH EMERGING THERAPEUTIC POTENTIAL

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

Abstract

Background: Medicinal plants continue to play a vital role in global healthcare, particularly in developing countries where traditional medicine forms the backbone of primary health systems. Extra-pharmacopoeial drugs, though not documented in classical Ayurvedic texts, represent an important reservoir of therapeutic agents. Globba marantina Linn., a member of the Zingiberaceae family, is one such plant widely used in indigenous medicine for the management of inflammatory, respiratory, and dermatological disorders, yet remains scientifically underexplored. Methods: The present review was conducted through a comprehensive analysis of available literature from ethnobotanical surveys, pharmacognostical studies, phytochemical investigations, and preliminary pharmacological reports. Relevant data were systematically compiled and critically evaluated to assess the therapeutic potential and research gaps associated with Globba marantina. Results: Ethnobotanical evidence indicates the extensive use of Globba marantina in conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, asthma, and skin disorders. Pharmacognostical studies have established key diagnostic features essential for identification and standardization. Phytochemical investigations reveal the presence of bioactive compounds including flavonoids, phenolics, terpenoids, alkaloids, and glycosides. Preliminary pharmacological studies demonstrate significant antioxidant and antimicrobial activities, supporting its traditional uses. However, the majority of findings are limited to in-vitro studies, with a lack of in-vivo and clinical validation. Conclusion: Globba marantina exhibits promising therapeutic potential as an extra-pharmacopoeial medicinal plant. Nevertheless, the absence of comprehensive pharmacological, toxicological, and clinical studies limits its application in evidence-based medicine. Future research focusing on advanced phytochemical characterization, in-vivo validation, standardization, and clinical evaluation is essential to establish its efficacy, safety, and therapeutic relevance.

Keywords: Globba marantina, Extra-pharmacopoeial drug, Ethnobotany, Pharmacognosy, Phytochemistry, Antioxidant activity, Anti-microbial activity, Medicinal plants, Zingiberaceae, Rheumatoid arthritis.