Trianthema portulacastrum L.: Traditional medicine in healthcare and biology

Abstract

Medicinal plants are the major folk and traditional medicine for the prevention of diseases worldwide. Trianthema portulacastrum L. (family: Aizoaceae), a small perennial weed, found in the America, Africa, India, and other regions of the world, and are extensively used not only as medicine but also as vegetable for its various health benefits. Phytochemical analysis of T. portulacastrum reveals the presence of alkaloids, phytosterols, terpenoids, saponins, flavonoids and phenolic compounds. In vitro and in vivo studies have demonstrated its pharmacological and biological activities. Different parts of T. portulacastrum L. are conventionally being used as analgesic, anti-pyretic, lipid lowering and microbicide agent; and protect liver and kidney from carcinogen, inflammation and oxidant chemicals.