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Abstract

Capparis moonii wight is a large woody climber or shrub (locally known as Rudanti) having Rasayana (rejuvenating) actions and it is being used in respiratory diseases like cough, bronchial asthma and pulmonary tuberculosis by ayurvedic physicians. It is one of the drugs which have references for its use from centuries but still not much explored in this contemporary era. The review aims to provide a critical and comprehensive evaluation, from the ancient times to our days, of the ethnological, botanical, chemical and pharmacological aspects of Capparis moonii, with a vision for promoting further pharmaceutical research to explore its complete potential as a therapeutic agent. This study was performed by reviewing in extensive details the studies on historical significance and ethnopharmacological applications of Capparis moonii by using classical ayurvedic texts, international scientific databases, books, etc. In addition, the plant taxonomy was validated using certified databases such as Medicinal Plant Names Services (MPNS) and the plant list. A detailed comparative analysis of the available sources for Capparis moonii wight confirmed that fruits of Capparis moonii are absolutely safe with rich source of biologically active components like rutin and quercitin with no toxicity. It has hepatoprotective, insulinomimetic, anti-ulcer, anti-bacterial and antifungal activities. Moreover immunomodulatory and antioxidant properties make it highly beneficial to use this herb in under nutrition and emaciating patients. We believe that this review will help lay the foundation for promoting exhaustive clinical studies to validate its reported activities. INTRODUCTION: Herbal medicines have a strong traditional and conceptual base and the potential to be useful as drugs in terms of safety and efficacy leads to treating different diseases.