The Therapeutic Potential of Nelumbo nucifera: A Comprehensive Review of Its Phytochemistry and Medicinal Properties

Nelumbo nucifera generally known as ‘sacred lotus’ is a plant with high medicinal value in traditional medicine system especially in Chinese medicine system which is having a wide distribution worldwide in Asian, Western European, American and Australian continent. All the parts of the plant have different medicinal value, as their extract contains various valuable chemical constituents which yield desired remedial effects against many diseases. The plant is used traditionally more compared to its commercial usage. It has also been used for dental and skin care products in many herbal formulations. In this review, data about its general description, its distribution, chemical constituents and therapeutic effects has been provided. The plant has various uses against many diseases and the review focus on anti-epileptic, antiviral, anticancer, antimicrobial, antiinflammatory, anti-hyperlipidemic, anthelmintic, anxiolytic & antidepressant, anti-cariogenic, analgesic, hepatoprotective, vasorelaxant, anticoagulant, anti-obesity, anti-neurodegenerative, anti-aging, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory properties of the plant