Ethnobotanical and Phyto pharmacological Overview of Matsyakshi (Alternanthera sessilis R Br.ex DC)

Abstract

Alternanthera sessilis (Amaranthaceae) is commonly called as sessile joy weed or dwarf copper leaf, has been a part of Indian health care system including different streams of medicinal plant practices such as Ayurveda,ethnobotany and folklore medicine for treating different conditions.The plant does not find vivid description in ancient classics of Ayurveda, but, its different uses are appreciated by the tribes and ethnics of India.This necessitates the scientific studies to validate the claims and further, to promote the research on the plants that are less explained and under-utilized in Ayurvefic therapeutics.The aim of this review is to create a basis for further investigation into the ethnobotanical claims and the biological activities to support its multiple uses.