Abstract

Ammi visnaga L. (Family: Apiaceae or Umbelliferae) is an herbaceous plant with a long history of traditional medicinal uses in many countries in the world. The plant has been known since ancient times for its curative properties and has been utilized for the treatment of circulatory problems, kidney stones, asthma, bronchitis, skin problems, and whooping cough. A wide range of chemical compounds including coumarins (glycosides), flavonoids, and volatile principles have been isolated from this species. Extracts from this plant have been found to possess various pharmacological activities. This contribution provides a comprehensive review of its ethnomedical uses, chemical constituents, and pharmacological profile as a medicinal plant. In this review, particular attention has been given to the anti-anginal, hypoglycemic and diuretic effects of the plant and thus the potential use of this plant in pharmaceutics can be evaluated.

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