Morphological features and Phyto-constituents of Meriandra bengalensis (J. Koenig ex Roxb.) Benth.

Abstract

Meriandra bengalensis (Konig ex Roxb.) Benth. is an annual herbaceous and aromatic plant belonging to the Lamiaceae family and is scented plant. The leaves of this plant are used to treat lethargy and sore throat in North East, India. Fresh leaves are used to treat high blood pressure and are also used as a tonic, carminative, astringent, and antibacterial. Tonsillitis is treated using an extract from inflorescences. The oil obtained from the leaves comprised mostly (+)-camphor (82%) and 30 minor chemicals. Sesquiterpenes, diterpenes, triterpenes, and flavones have been identified from its aerial portions and roots. The present paper highlights the morphological features and phyto-constituents of the plant.