A Review on Traditional and Modern Aspects of Vitex negundo L.: Ethnomedicine, Phytochemistry, and Pharmacology

Authors

• Tathagata Khanra, Pharmacognosy & Phytotherapy research Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Jadavpur University, Kolkata 700032, IndiaFollow
• Suvasish Mitra, Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Gandhari College (School of Pharmacy), Nazir Bazar, Purba Medinipur-721655, IndiaFollow
• Subham Saha, Pharmacognosy & Phytotherapy research Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Jadavpur University, Kolkata 700032, IndiaFollow
• Maitryee Mondal, Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, Gupta College of Technological Sciences, Asansol, West Bengal 713301, IndiaFollow
• Subhash C. Mandal, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Jadavpur University, Kolkata 700032, IndiaFollow

Abstract

Vitex negundo L., or five-leaved chaste tree, is a medicinally significant plant widely distributed in Asia and other tropical regions, frequently utilized in traditional healing systems for a spectrum of ailments. This comprehensive review consolidates current knowledge on the botany, traditional uses, phytochemical constituents, and pharmacological potentials of Vitex negundo L. The plant is rich in diverse bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, alkaloids, glycosides, and terpenoids, which are primarily responsible for its multidimensional therapeutic actions. Scientific investigations have substantiated its role in exerting anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antimicrobial, antioxidant, hepatoprotective, nephroprotective, insecticidal, anticancer, and antidiabetic effects, among others. Research reveals promising enzyme-inhibitory, anxiolytic, and anti-snake venom activities, highlighting potential applications for drug development and integrative medicine. The review critically addresses both established and emerging therapeutic opportunities, alongside safety evaluations and future perspectives in clinical applicability. Collectively, the abundant pharmacological portfolio and broad ethnomedical heritage position Vitex negundo L. as a valuable candidate for further phytomedicine and pharmaceutical innovation.

Recommended Citation

Khanra, Tathagata; Mitra, Suvasish; Saha, Subham; Mondal, Maitryee; and Mandal, Subhash C. (2025) "A Review on Traditional and Modern Aspects of Vitex negundo L.: Ethnomedicine, Phytochemistry, and Pharmacology," International Journal of Traditional Knowledge: Vol. 1: Iss. 1, Article 8.
Available at: https://knowledgeconnect.sastra.edu/ijtk/vol1/iss1/8