Sphaeranthus indicus Linn (Asteraceae) is commonly known as Munditika,
Mundi, Shravana, Bhikshu, Tapodhana, Mahashravani, Shravanahva, and
Shravanashirshaka. It is generally found in wet places of the lowlands and also grows
as a weed in rice fields. Herein, the traditional uses, chemical components and
pharmacological properties are compiled to provide a ready reference for scientists
working on this plant species. The whole plant and various morphological parts are
extensively used in Indian medicine to treat a variety of diseases. The plant has
astringent, stomachic, reviving, pectoral, demulcent, and calming properties. Various
secondary metabolites, such as eudesmanolides, sesquiterpenoids, sesquiterpene
lactones, sesquiterpene acids, flavone glycosides, flavonoid C-glycosides, isoflavone
glycoside, sterols, sterol glycoside, alkaloids, peptide alkaloids, amino acids, and
sugars have been found in the plant. Numerous monoterpene hydrocarbons, oxygenated
monoterpenes, oxygenated sesquiterpenes, and sesquiterpene hydrocarbons were found
in the essential oils from the plant. The entire plant and various morphological parts
have been reported to have ovicidal, anthelmintic, antifeedant, antimicrobial, antiviral,
macrofilaricidal, larvicidal, analgesic, antipyretic, hepatoprotective, antitussive, wound
healing, bronchodilatory, mast cell stabilising, anxiolytic, neuroleptic,
immunomodulatory, anti-diabetic, antihyperlipidemic, antioxidant, central nervous
system depressant, anti-arthritic, nephroprotective, and anticonvulsant activities. Acute
toxicity of extracts from different plant parts revealed the safety of the drug.
Keywords: Phytochemistry, Pharmacological activity, Sphaeranthus indicus
