Review & Future Perspectives of Using Vasicine, and Related Compounds

Abstract

Vasicine molecule was first isolated in 1924 and most of the work on this molecule was done between 1960s1980s. The plant Adhatoda vasica (Acanthaceae) is the main source of this molecule. This plant has been used in India for 2000 years for the treatment of respiratory ailments and for its abortifacient activities. It is surprising to note that, even if, it has been used effectively and extensively in the above mentioned areas since ancient times till date, and a huge amount of work has already been done on its derivative “Bromhexine”, very few recent reports are available for its molecular mechanism of action. The present article is an attempt to compile the literature available for this molecule and to further analyze its probable potential use in the above areas, including few more other areas as well. © 2011 IGJPS. All rights reserved Keyword