Aerial parts of Enicostemma littorale Blume serve as antipyretic and antacid: in vivo and in vitro evaluations

Abstract

Enicostemma littorale Blume (family Gentianaceae) is a perennial herb and found throughout India, most commonly in coastal areas. Ancient literature suggests the aqueous extract of the plant was used in the treatment of diabetes, fever, rheumatism, stomachache, dyspepsia, hernia, itching, insect poisoning and malaria.[1-3] Several studies also suggested the role of the plant with antitumor,[3,4] antiarthritic,[3,5] hypoglycemic[3,6] and antimalarial[3,7] properties.