Ethnomedicinal and Hepatoprotective Potential of Sphaeranthus indicus L

Abstract

Sphaeranthus indicus L., or East Indian Globe Thistle, also referred to as "Gorakhmundi" in Ayurvedic medicine, is a highly valued plant under the Asteraceae family. The review here exhaustively discusses its ethnomedicinal use as well as critically analyzes the scientific evidence as proof of its hepatoprotective effect. S. indicus has been used in a broad spectrum of cultures, especially in South Asia, for the treatment of a broad range of diseases such as jaundice, liver diseases, skin infections, fevers, and respiratory disorders. Phytochemical analysis has shown a rich secondary metabolite composition, which consists of flavonoids, steroids, triterpenoids, essential oils, and alkaloids, responsible for its extensive range of pharmacological activity. Various in vitro and in vivo studies have shown that S. has tremendous hepatoprotective activity. indicus isolates against chemically induced models of liver damage, including carbon tetrachloride (CCl4), paracetamol, and antitubercular drug-induced toxicity. Its mechanisms of action on its hepatoprotective properties are complex and include mainly potent antioxidant activity, inflammatory pathways modulation, membrane stabilization, and augmentation of detoxification enzymes. Although traditional applications and preclinical studies strongly support its therapeutic potential in liver diseases, additional stringent clinical trials are necessary to confirm its efficacy and safety in human patients. This review seeks to bridge conventional wisdom with contemporary scientific knowledge in emphasizing S. indicus as a potential natural source for the development of new hepatotherapeutic agents.