boerhavia diffusa

**Boerhavia diffusa** is a perennial herb widely used in traditional systems of medicine, especially Ayurveda, where it is known as Punarnava. It is valued for its **diuretic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antidiabetic, hepatoprotective, renoprotective, cardioprotective, and immunomodulatory properties**. The plant contains numerous bioactive phytochemicals including rotenoids (boeravinones A–J), flavonoids (quercetin, kaempferol), phenolics (punarnavoside, boerhavic acid), alkaloids (punarnavine), ecdysteroids (β-ecdysone), lignans (liriodendrin), and steroids (boerhavisterol). Extracts and purified compounds from boerhavia diffusa have been shown in various studies (in vitro, animal, and limited human research) to have potential benefits in treating edema, liver disorders, diabetes, inflammation, kidney and urinary tract diseases, and some cancers. Its bioactive effects are believed to be due to modulation of inflammatory and oxidative stress pathways, cytoprotection, enhancement of organ function, and diuresis. It is frequently used as a rejuvenative or "rasayana" herb in Ayurveda, and is included in many herbal formulations for immune support, detoxification, and metabolic balance[1][2][3][4].

Other names

Boerhaavia diffusaPunarnavaRed SpiderlingSpreading Hogweed