Oxyria digyna: A review on the nutritional value, phytochemistry and ethnopharmacology

Abstract

Oxyria digyna is an important herb, having a wide geographical distribution. Nutritionally, it has found its place in the meals of various populations living in different parts of the world, both in raw and cooked forms. Traditional uses identified its indications in cancer, depression, hepatitis, jaundice, colic, gastritis, appetite, diuretic, constipation, cough, chest congestion, boils, scurvy. Several pharmacological activities have hastened further experimental exploration of this plant, establishing its efficacy for diabetes, free radical scavenging, gout, and cancer. The important bioactive compounds isolated from this plant are vitexin, orientin, hesperidin, quercetin and stigmasterol. These compounds have extensive effects on human physiology and provide proof that O. digyna is potentially unexplored for its pharmacological efficacy. A detailed metabolomic approach is required to fully characterize the plant as a potential nutraceutical candidate with multiple therapeutic potentials.