Abstract

Amit Pankaj, Nidhi Khatri, Bhanu Pratap Singh, Sumit Kumar Nagar

ABSTRACT

Sphaeranthus indicus Linn. (Asteraceae), commonly known as East Indian Globe Thistle, is a medicinally important plant widely distributed across the Indian subcontinent. Traditionally employed in Ayurveda, Siddha, and Unani systems of medicine, it has been used to treat neurological disorders, hepatic ailments, skin diseases, and inflammatory conditions. Modern phytochemical investigations have revealed a diverse array of bioactive constituents, including sesquiterpene lactones, eudesmanolides, sesquiterpenoids, flavonoids, sterols, alkaloids, glycosides, amino acids, and sugars. Essential oils derived from flowers and whole plants contain monoterpenes, sesquiterpenes, and oxygenated derivatives, with compounds such as methyl chavicol, citral, geraniol, and ? eudesmol contributing to its chemical richness. Pharmacological studies have demonstrated that S. indicus possesses significant anti inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, hepatoprotective, immunomodulatory, and neuropharmacological activities. Its extracts have shown potential in reducing oxidative stress, modulating immune responses, and protecting hepatic function against toxic insults. The plant also exhibits anticancer and antimitotic properties, with sesquiterpene lactones and alkaloids interfering with tumor cell proliferation and inducing apoptosis. Neuroactive effects, including anxiolytic, antidepressant, and anticonvulsant activities, further validate its traditional use in neurological disorders. Additional studies highlight its antidiabetic, wound healing, cardioprotective, and anti arthritic potential, making it a versatile candidate for drug discovery. Despite promising findings, most studies remain limited to preliminary in vitro and in vivo models, with scarce clinical validation. Future research should emphasize bioassay guided fractionation, mechanistic studies, and clinical trials to establish standardized phytopharmaceuticals. Overall, Sphaeranthus indicus represents a valuable medicinal resource, bridging traditional knowledge with modern biomedical research, and offering scope for novel therapeutic interventions.