Hemidesmus indicus: A Rich Source of Herbal Medicine
Herbal medicines vary in a large range; from traditional medicines of ancient times to present day standardized herbal extracts. Herbal medicine is used for primary health care by about 80% of world population. In 1991, World Health Organization developed guidelines for assessment of herbal medicines. Different archaeological evidences indicate that medicinal plants are used approximately five thousand years ago. Whether it is Mesopotamians, Egyptians or China dynasty; Indian ancient Ayurveda too carries the evidences of use of herbal medicines 5000 BC. Hemidesmus indicus – Anantamool, is a plant species of Apocynaceae family commonly found in India, specially in different areas of West Bengal. It is a slender, laticiferous, semi-erect endangered shrub; specifically known for its immense medicinal values; for example-anticancerous, antiarthritic, antimicrobial, antiulcer, antivenom, antileprotic, immunomodulatory, hepatoprotective, wound healing activity etc. Its immense medicinal values can bring H. indicus as a royal source of herbal medicine in India.