Pharmacological activities of Nadihingu (Gardenia gummifera L.f.): A narrative review

Abstract

Nadihingu ( Gardenia gummifera L.f.) is mentioned in Ayurveda textbooks, such as Dhanwantri Nighantu, Raj Nighantu, and the Ayurveda Pharmacopeia of India (API), and is widely found in northeastern and other parts of India. The dried resin is mentioned as a monoherbal dosage form as per the API. Nadihingu has been claimed to have various therapeutic properties and is also used by tribal communities. Although this drug has been used for centuries, there are limited evidence-based data on all the indications mentioned in Ayurveda. In this current review, an attempt has been made to exemplify available pharmacological studies on Nadihingu. Out of the 27 articles identified by searching PubMed Central, DHARA, Ayush Research Portal, Scopus, Science Direct, J-Gate and Google Scholar, 13 articles were selected as per the inclusion criteria. A total of 13 articles having various pharmacological studies were analyzed. Most published data have shown significant pharmacological properties in various parts of the plant, including antioxidant, antihyperlipidemic, hepatoprotective, antimicrobial, antihyperglycemic, anticancer, cardioprotective, and wound-healing activities, as demonstrated through in vitro and in vivo studies. Based on these proven pharmacological effects of the plant, it can be used in various ailments. Limited clinical studies are available on Gardenia gummifera L.f.; therefore, future clinical trials may be helpful in ascertaining its therapeutic efficacy.