HIDDEN POTENTIAL OF CANNA INDICA-ANAMAZING ORNAMENTAL HERB
Sanjay Pandey, M. M. Bhandari
Abstract
Canna indicaL.(family Cannaceae), an ornamental herb, possesses innumerable phytochemicals comprising of polyphenolic secondary metabolites flavonoids, isoprene polymers terpenoids, basic nitrogen containing organic molecules alkaloids, proteins, steroids, glycosides, oils, triterpene glycosides saponins, tannins, carbohydrates and pigmentsetc. in good proportions. Traditionally, it has been used as home remedy for different ailments. Studies conducted to explore the potential of this plant reveal that it demonstrates bactericidal, antiviral, anthelmintic, molluscicidal, anesthetic, immunomodulatory, cytotoxic, hemostatic, antihepatotoxicproperties. It also reduces inflammation, controls diarrhea and serves as antioxidant. This article offers details of chemical constituents which are responsible for pharmacological, non-pharmacological properties of Canna indica which may serve as a base to explore its pharmacognostic& pharmacological characteristics that can further be exploited for medicinal and non -medicinal purposes.