From roots to remedies: Exploration of medicinal potential of Fumaria parviflora Lam. in drug discovery

Abstract

Fumaria parviflora Lam., (synonym Fumaria indica) an important medicinal herb widely known in Ayurvedic and Unani system of medicine for its diuretic, laxative, antihelmintic, antimicrobial, stomachic and blood purifier properties. It has been used as antimicrobial, antiviral, hepatoprotective, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, wound healing properties and in reproductive health etc. The present review aims to focus on the traditional uses, pharmacology, and phytochemistry of F. parviflora. Findings based on the scientific evidence suggested that F. parviflora has been widely studied for both in-vitro as well as on animal models. Additionally, F. parviflora has also been tested clinically for skin diseases such as eczema, uremic pruritus among hemodialysis patients and hot flashes in breast cancer survivors. The biological activities are majorly associated with the presence of alkaloids and other secondary metabolites. Furthermore, in-silico studies revealed the role of extracted compounds from F. parviflora against the proteins involved in various diseases.