Phytochemical and pharmacological aspects of Nothapodytes nimmoniana. An overview
Abstract
Nothapodytes nimmoniana (J. Graham) (Icacinaceae), commonly known as Amruta is found
in India particularly in Maharashtra, Goa, Kerala, Assam, Jammu and Kashmir as well as
Tamilnadu areas. It is an important medicinal plant, the major source of a potent alkaloid,
namely camptothecin, of a wide spectrum of pharmacological activities like anti-cancer,
anti-HIV, antimalarial, antibacterial, anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal and also
applied in the treatment of anaemia. Camptothecin is still not synthesized, therefore, its
production entirely depends on natural sources. N. nimmoniana is one such plant which
yields contain camptothecin in significantly high amount. The plant is gaining international
recognition due to its diversified medicinal uses. It is subjected to excessive harvest.
It has been categorized as a vulnerable and endangered plant. The present review
encompasses the phytochemical, analytical, pharmacological, biotechnological, and other
specific aspects of N. nimmoniana.