Multiple biological activities of Boerhaavia diffusa Linn. (punarnava): An overview

In Ayurveda, a traditional system of medicine, punarnava (Boerhaavia diffusa) is commonly used as diuretic, hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory, anticonvulsant, antifibrinolytic, antibacterial, and antiviral agent. The whole plant as well as its specific parts (leaves, roots and stems), plant extracts and its active constituent punarnavine, have been widely used for the treatment of a large number of human ailments. Several epidemiological, clinical and experimental studies have demonstrated the multiple biological activities of punarnava. This review summarizes the most interesting studies on the various biological activities of punarnava.